Matthijs de Ligt has officially been ruled out of Manchester United’s Europa League final clash against Tottenham Hotspur, delivering a heavy blow to the Red Devils just days before the crucial match.
The Dutch defender sustained a foot injury back in April, and despite hopes of a potential recovery, the medical team has confirmed he will not be fit in time for the final.
His absence adds to an already growing injury list that includes key defenders Lisandro Martínez and rising talent Leny Yoro, leaving head coach Ruben Amorim facing a major dilemma as he prepares his squad for the high-pressure encounter.
The setback is especially painful for De Ligt, given his personal history with Tottenham. During his time at Ajax, he captained the Dutch side in their dramatic Champions League semi-final clash against Spurs in 2019 — a match that ended in heartbreak as Ajax were eliminated in the dying moments.
De Ligt had described that defeat as a “nightmare” and was eager for a chance at redemption in this final. The opportunity to face Tottenham once again on such a grand stage was more than just another game for the centre-back, and this latest injury blow will undoubtedly sting on an emotional level.
After returning to full training in recent weeks, there had been cautious optimism that De Ligt might make a surprise recovery in time for the final. However, club doctors have now ruled out any possibility of his involvement, citing that the injury has not healed sufficiently to risk his long-term fitness.
His absence leaves a gaping hole in United’s defense at a time when the club needs composure, experience, and leadership at the back more than ever.
With De Ligt unavailable, Amorim must now explore his remaining options. Victor Lindelöf may be called upon to step into the starting XI, while promising young defender Willy Kambwala is another possibility. Alternatively, Casemiro could be deployed in a makeshift defensive role, though this would weaken the midfield.
Tottenham’s attack, featuring the pace and creativity of Heung-Min Son and James Maddison, will be a significant threat, and any defensive frailties could be ruthlessly exposed.
Despite the setback, this Europa League final remains a massive opportunity for Manchester United — not only to secure silverware but also to guarantee a spot in next season’s UEFA Champions League. The match will take place on Wednesday, May 21, at San Mamés Stadium in Bilbao.
For supporters across the UK, it will be broadcast live on TNT Sports 1 and Ultimate, with a free stream available for new users on Discovery+. Even without De Ligt, United’s players have the chance to step up and etch their names into club history on what promises to be an unforgettable night.
