Michael Carrick gives positive update on Matthijs de Ligt recovery

Matthijs de Ligt is progressing in his recovery from injury, but Manchester United will not rush him back before the end of the season, according to interim boss Michael Carrick.

The 26-year-old defender has been sidelined since November with a back injury but has now resumed light training on the grass, raising hopes of a possible return before the campaign concludes.

Cautious approach to recovery

Carrick made it clear that while progress is being made, there is no fixed timeline for De Ligt’s comeback.

“Matthijs is working towards being fit again. He’s doing a little bit on the grass and it’s progress,” Carrick said.

“He’s back on the grass at the moment, in a small capacity, but he’s working towards it. So that’s positive.”

However, the United boss stressed that the club will prioritise the player’s long-term fitness over short-term availability.

“I was certainly hoping there is a chance that he can [play] without putting any pressure on it or deadlines on it,” he added.

“There’s certainly no pressure overly to get him back. He needs to come back at the right time when he’s ready.”

Defensive depth eases urgency

Despite De Ligt’s absence, Carrick expressed confidence in his defensive options, pointing to the presence of experienced and emerging players within the squad.

“It’s not an area of concern for me at this moment in time,” he said, downplaying the need for immediate reinforcements.

Uncertainty beyond the season

De Ligt faces a race against time to feature again this season, with United’s remaining fixtures limited. At the same time, broader uncertainty remains at the club, including the managerial situation and player transfer ahead of the next campaign.