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<div data-fco-dynamic-placement="" data-fco-dynamic-placement-type="match-recirculation" data-fco-embed-id="fco-dynamic-placement:match-recirculation"><script type="application/json" data-placement="match-recirculation">{"type":"match-recirculation","data":{}}</script></div>Back in the starting line-up after a long absence, Matthijs De Ligt returns for Manchester United in their Champions League clash against Como.It has been 325 days since the last time he played, on 30 November 2025. He received conservative treatment and underwent surgery to resolve his back problem. <div data-fco-dynamic-placement="" data-fco-dynamic-placement-type="fcplayer-semantic"><script type="application/json" data-placement="fcplayer-semantic">{"type":"fcplayer-semantic","data":{"embedCode":"//cdn.fcp.codes/embed-code-template/embed-code-template.js#SEMANTIC_5704afb8-c10b-4ba5-9cb4-d7fb6098ef90","embedType":"SEMANTIC","embedId":"5704afb8-c10b-4ba5-9cb4-d7fb6098ef90","publisher":null,"playerId":null,"fallbackChannelId":null}}</script></div>

Manchester United, De Ligt is back: returns to action 325 days after his last appearance

Serie A

Como

Sassuolo

Premier League

Manchester United

AFC Bournemouth

"After 6 months of treatment and hard work to get back into shape, surgery was the only option left. I’m disappointed that I haven’t been able to help the team over the last 6 months and, of course, that I can’t take part in the World Cup, but I intend to do everything I can to get back on the pitch in front of the fans and feel better again."On 15 May, the Dutch centre-back posted that message on social media shortly after his back operation. De Ligt has worked hard since then to be available to Carrick again.

The injury and the operation

De Ligt last played on 30 November 2025, when Manchester United beat Crystal Palace 2-1. Zirkzee and Mount scored for United, rendering Mateta's goal inconsequential.Today, he returns to the starting XI against Como on matchday three of the 2026/2027 Champions League league phase.

Back on the pitch

Manchester United, De Ligt is back: returns to the pitch 325 days after his last appearance | Goal.com South Africa

The injury and the operation

Back on the pitch

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