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Man United’s rock at the back could be back in action sooner than expected
Sep 15 2026 00:48 · By onefootball.com · 5 Reads
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Manchester United have failed to keep a clean sheet in the Premier League so far and INEOS’ decision not to strengthen the backline seems more and more puzzling as the days go by.
Michael Carrick has opted to partner Lisandro Martinez with Harry Maguire in the league, and the duo have struggled alongside both full-backs.
The Argentine has been prone to errors, but the head coach has opted not to hand Ayden Heaven any minutes so far, while Leny Yoro has been used as a right-back.
Matthijs de Ligt’s absence has not helped, but a return is around the corner if the reliable Sully is to be believed.
Matthijs de Ligt injury update
The Red Devils are targeting October or November for the Dutchman‘s comeback, with the ex-Ajax ace already training with his teammates on a couple of occasions.
He will need time, and Carrick is happy to provide that as the club looks to avoid any further setbacks in the Netherlands international’s rehabilitation.
“Matthijs de Ligt has trained with his teammates a few times, with reports suggesting he is due to return to action in October or November.
“Roundtable now understands that on Monday, following the Manchester Derby, the 27-year-old underwent an individual training session on grass at Carrington as he closes in on a return to the pitch.
October return would be huge boost
“United’s players had a day off following the controversial 1-0 defeat against Manchester City, but this did not stop the Dutchman from continuing to monitor and improve his recovery.
“It is understood that the De Ligt has not suffered any sort of setback, but that he is just being managed really carefully, much like Carlos Baleba.”
The former Bayern Munich defender was supposed to miss only a week, but he ended up sidelined for over 10 months.
He was forced to undergo surgery in the summer after his back injury deteriorated, but the worst now seems to be over.
Hopefully, Matthijs de Ligt and Carlos Baleba can light the spark that revitalises United and saves their season from falling apart.
