Massive injury update emerges on key star ahead of Sunday’s showdown with Leeds – report

A fresh update has been provided on Manchester United defender Matthijs de Ligt ahead of Sunday’s meeting with Leeds United at Elland Road. De Ligt sidelined De Ligt started the season in excellent form, featuring in all of United’s Premier League games. However, he has been out of action for the last six weeks with a back injury. He is part of a growing list of players who have been unavailable to Ruben Amorim for selection, including skipper Bruno Fernandes, Kobbie Mainoo, Mason Mount and Harry Maguire. This does not include Amad, Bryan Mbeumo and Noussair Mazraoui, who are all away with their respective countries for the Africa Cup of Nations. The initial assessment was that De Ligt’s injury would not keep him out for long. In his absence, Ayden Heaven has stepped up admirably, consistently putting up fine performances. Speaking at his press conference ahead of the Leeds game, Amorim revealed that none of the injured stars are likely to be back for the contest. Now, it has emerged that De Ligt is seemingly inching closer to a return, with a report claiming that the Dutchman is training on the grass. De Ligt update Centredevils claim, “Matthijs de Ligt continued to feel discomfort from a back issue in the last month, which has led to a longer return than planned.” “We can reveal that the 26-year-old underwent specialised treatment for this area last month.” “He is currently doing individual grass training and isn’t far off returning to first-team training, depending on how his rehabilitation goes.” De Ligt being back on the grass is a positive development, potentially suggesting that he could rejoin his teammates for group sessions very soon. With both he and Maguire out, Amorim is dealing with a severe lack of backline options. Not only are his gritty performances a big plus for United, but also the leadership he provides on the pitch. Leeds vs. United kicks off at 5.30 pm. Featured image Jan Kruger via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Derick Kinoti Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the Premier League extensively for years. His work blends sharp analysis, tactical insight, and engaging storytelling that resonates with fans around the world. Derick has gained valuable experience in football journalism, developing strong expertise in SEO writing, digital content creation, and social media engagement. A tech enthusiast with a Computer Science degree from the University of Nairobi, he ultimately swapped code for football commentary, bringing an analytical, detail-oriented approach to his writing. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!