Matthijs de Ligt

De Ligt continues to make good progress in his recovery and has been training well, though Manchester United are still carefully managing the final stages of his return, according to coach Michael Carrick. "He's trained really well but we're still managing it, when you're out for such a long period of time, you get to the final stages, pushing and pushing, and you've got to manage that last stage."

Analysis: De Ligt is progressing well after his lengthy absence but still needs time to complete the final stages of his recovery before returning to competitive action. United are being cautious with the center-back's workload after his extended spell out, with manager Michael Carrick indicating that he remains on the right track. Lisandro Martinez and Leny Yoro are expected to form the central defensive partnership against Sabah on Thursday.

Aug 20, 2026

Involved in training

De Ligt (back) remains out but manager Michael Carrick highlighted his return to training in Thursday's press conference before Saturday's EPL opener against Hull City. "Matta's obviously been out for a long period of time, but he's training and it's great to have him back. He won't be involved, but he's in good shape and moving in a good direction, so that's a good bonus for us really, at this stage, to have him back."

Analysis: De Ligt barely played in the 2025/26 season due to a nagging back injury, and while the center-back is not ready to feature yet, he seems to be trending in the right direction. De Ligt could be ready to return around the September international break, with Lisandro Martinez, Leny Yoro, Harry Maguire and Ayden Heaven all being options to provide cover at center-back while the Dutchman remains sidelined.