Matthijs de Ligt (27, Man United)'s return timeline remains uncertain. Michael Carrick, who took charge of Manchester United, also drew a line, saying, "I don't know when he will return."
The British broadcaster BBC reported on the 20th (Korean time) that de Ligt has not been recovering well from a back injury and that his return schedule has not been set.
De Ligt started the season as a starter in 13 consecutive matches and was a key part of the defense. The run was interrupted on Dec. 4 last year in the match against West Ham. At the time, manager Rúben Amorim called it a "minor issue" and expected a return for the Wolverhampton match, but the situation unfolded very differently.
In the end, de Ligt did not play a single match after that. Recovery from the back injury has taken longer than expected, and with his absence from this weekend's Bournemouth match confirmed, the time out is expected to exceed four months. If he does not return by Apr. 14 for the Leeds United match, the gap will be even longer.
Manager Carrick also maintained a cautious stance. He avoided a clear answer when asked about the possibility of being out for the season. He did acknowledge, however, that the nature of the injury makes it difficult to specify a return date.
He explained, "Because it is taking this long, it is hard to be definitive. A back injury can look fine and then suddenly worsen." He added, "We are not approaching this hastily and are monitoring the recovery process. We are helping him return as quickly as possible, but it is difficult to give an exact date."
De Ligt's long-term absence could also affect the national team. He was initially expected to be included in Ronald Koeman's plans for the national team ahead of the World Cup. Given the current trajectory, the outlook is not bright.
Carrick was also reserved about the possibility of surgery. He said, "I don't want to speak to that at this stage," adding, "We are focusing on helping the player's recovery."
What is clear is that recovery is underway. Carrick said, "He is improving," but added, "It's just not as fast as everyone had hoped."
The wait is lengthening. De Ligt, who was the center of Man United's defense, still remains off the pitch.
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