New Netherlands head coach Xavi has shared that he is keeping in regular contact with both Manchester United and Matthijs de Ligt as the centre-back works his way back from a long spell on the sidelines. The defender is now close to making his competitive return after nearly a year out, a period that cost him a place at the 2026 World Cup.
A comeback long in the making
De Ligt has been missing from competitive action for almost a year. A stubborn back injury first forced him out in November 2025, and what followed was a deeply frustrating road to recovery. After six months of conservative treatment failed to solve the problem, the Dutchman eventually accepted that surgery was unavoidable.
He went under the knife in May, a decision that officially ruled him out of the World Cup. Now back training at Carrington, the Manchester United man is making real progress physically, and the club’s medical team expect him to be available for selection once the current international break comes to an end.
Xavi is watching closely
Even after such a lengthy absence, De Ligt remains firmly in the plans of the new Netherlands boss. Speaking ahead of a demanding stretch of Nations League fixtures against Germany, Serbia, and Greece, Barcelona legend Xavi confirmed he is tracking the defender’s recovery in Manchester.
He revealed that they are in touch with De Ligt and the club, acknowledging that the player has been through a tough time. He also mentioned recently speaking with Frenkie de Jong and Xavi Simons, stressing that the national team needs all of its players, especially those key figures.
Making clear how highly he rates the centre-back, Xavi added that De Ligt is doing well and they are monitoring his situation, since they want everyone available. In his words, De Ligt is an important player and could be important in the future for the Oranje.
Battling through early setbacks
The journey back has been a real test for the former Ajax captain. When he chose to have surgery earlier this year, De Ligt openly expressed his disappointment on social media. He explained that after six months of treatment and hard work to return, surgery was the only option left, and he lamented being unable to help United or take part in the World Cup.
For Manchester United, his return would be a huge boost to the back line. Manager Michael Carrick is eager to have him back, along with several other first-team players on the mend. After a recent 1-1 draw against Fulham, Carrick said he hopes Amad Diallo will have trained with the group by the time the team returns, adding that De Ligt is also working hard to regain full fitness.
