De Ligt has been out since November with a back problem, but is finally nearing full fitness. ‌The centre-back, however, has another personal goal: to rediscover his fitness and convince Ronald Koeman that he is worthy of a place in the Netherlands' squad for the World Cup this summer. They have just 12 Premier League games left this season before the World Cup kicks off on June 11. Squads will be announced a month prior to the first match, between Mexico and South Africa, on May 11, two weeks before the end of the Premier League season. Article continues belowJoin our new MAN UTD WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Manchester United content from Mirror Football.

Source: Daily Mirror February 17, 2026 07:24 UTC