Matthijs de Ligt suffers fresh Manchester United injury setback

Manchester United are facing fresh defensive concerns ahead of the start of the new Premier League season after reports claimed Matthijs de Ligt is unlikely to return until the autumn.

While there is encouraging news surrounding Lisandro Martínez's recovery, the outlook for De Ligt remains far less positive as the Dutch defender continues his rehabilitation from a long-term back problem.

According to The National, De Ligt is not expected to rejoin Manchester United's first-team squad until later this year.

The Netherlands international has not played for the club since November after undergoing surgery to resolve a persistent back injury.

The problem also forced the former Ajax defender to miss the 2026 World Cup, and his recovery is reportedly taking longer than initially anticipated.

As things stand, De Ligt is expected to miss the opening weeks of the Premier League campaign.

Manchester United have received more encouraging news regarding Lisandro Martínez.

The Argentine defender raised concerns after leaving the World Cup final with discomfort in his thigh, prompting fears of another lengthy injury lay-off.

However, The National reports that United's medical staff do not believe the issue is serious.

Martínez is expected to return following an extended post-World Cup break and is currently on course to be available for Manchester United's Premier League opener against Hull City.

The contrasting injury updates leave head coach Michael Carrick facing an important challenge ahead of the new season.

While Martínez appears close to returning, De Ligt's prolonged absence reduces United's options in central defence as preparations continue for both the Premier League and Champions League campaigns.

The club will hope Martínez's recovery progresses as planned while De Ligt continues his rehabilitation programme over the coming months.

Manchester United are aiming to build on last season's third-place Premier League finish and return to competing on multiple fronts.

Having an experienced defender such as Martínez available from the opening weekend would provide a significant boost.

For De Ligt, however, the priority remains making a full recovery before returning to competitive action later in the year.

Manchester United expect Lisandro Martínez to return in time for the Premier League opener after his extended break following the World Cup. Matthijs de Ligt, meanwhile, will continue his rehabilitation and is currently targeting a return to action during the autumn.