Man Utd boss Carrick uncertain on De Ligt’s return

Manchester United manager Michael Carrick has admitted he has “no idea” when Matthijs de Ligt will return from the back injury that has already kept the defender out for months. The Dutch centre-back’s prolonged absence is causing growing concern at the club, with Carrick conceding that even the medical staff are unable to provide a clear timeline for his comeback.

Speaking ahead of United’s upcoming fixtures, Carrick described De Ligt’s situation as “difficult” and stressed that there is no attempt to keep fans in the dark. “I’m not trying to hide anything – we literally don’t know,” he said, underlining the uncertainty surrounding the 26-year-old’s recovery.

De Ligt has been sidelined since suffering the back problem late last year and has endured several setbacks during his rehabilitation. While he is said to be making gradual progress, he has not yet rejoined full first-team training and continues to work individually as he builds fitness.

Carrick acknowledged that the defender is “moving in the right direction” but admitted De Ligt is still behind where United had hoped he would be at this stage. The lack of a defined return date has inevitably raised fears that he may not feature again this season.

With United fighting for key objectives on multiple fronts, the continued absence of a player signed to be a cornerstone of the defence is a significant blow. Carrick is therefore preparing for the remainder of the campaign on the assumption that he may have to cope without De Ligt, relying on his remaining centre-backs to carry the load in a crucial period.

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