Just in: Man Utd absentee ‘sets sights’ on timely return ahead of top-four run-in in major boost to Carrick

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Stretty News

·16 February 2026

Just in: Man Utd absentee ‘sets sights’ on timely return ahead of top-four run-in in major boost to Carrick

Matthijs de Ligt has ‘set his sights’ on a return to action in time for Manchester United’s top-four run-in.

As per Katherine Walsh and Martin Blackburn, the centre-half is aiming to be at Michael Carrick’s disposal in March.

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He has yet to feature under the new interim manager, having last played in the 2-1 away win over Crystal Palace on November 30, when Ruben Amorim was still at the helm.

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De Ligt ready for first taste of action in three months

(Photo by Warren Little/Getty Images)

Alas, De Ligt has missed out on the emphatic run United have initiated since Carrick took charge, with his revitalised Reds unbeaten in five successive matches – four of which were wins.

That being said, he may struggle to break back into the XI amid the stellar form of current centre-back partnership, Lisandro Martinez and Harry Maguire, especially with United having only Premier League action to focus on from now until the culmination of 2025/2026.

*De Ligt’s record in the league for United (Transfermarkt)

When the Dutch international is restored to the squad, it’ll be the first time this season that he, Maguire and Martinez are all fit and available.

Carrick also has young guns Ayden Heaven and Leny Yoro chomping at the bit to prove themselves, so it’s safe to say he’s spoilt for choice.

As well as De Ligt: Who else is Carrick waiting on?

(Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)

De Ligt has been in the treatment room alongside long-term absentee Patrick Dorgu, who was struck with a gutting injury setback when enjoying his most prolific string of performances in a United shirt.

Mason Mount has also missed the games against Fulham, Tottenham Hotspur, and West Ham with a knock. He was an unused substitute for the win over Arsenal and played just one minute in Carrick’s first outing in the dugout: the Manchester derby.