Manchester United Injury Update: Matthijs de Ligt, Leny Yoro and Diogo Dalot Latest News and Return Dates
As Manchester United prepare for a pivotal summer that could define the direction of the club under its new football structure, injury concerns remain a recurring theme. While much of the focus has been on transfers, particularly defensive reinforcements like Matthijs de Ligt and Leny Yoro, fans have also been eager for updates on the current squad’s fitness — most notably that of Diogo Dalot, a player who ended the 2024/25 campaign as one of United’s most consistent performers.
With several high-profile targets nursing knocks and some current stars battling to be fit for pre-season and Euro 2024, here is the latest injury and fitness update on Matthijs de Ligt, Leny Yoro, and Diogo Dalot, as well as their expected return dates and what it could mean for Manchester United’s preparations.
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Matthijs de Ligt – Transfer Target Facing Late Fitness Test for Euros
Matthijs de Ligt, the Dutch international and Bayern Munich centre-back, has emerged as a leading target for Manchester United’s defensive rebuild. With Raphael Varane confirming his departure at the end of the 2024/25 season and Lisandro Martínez enduring a campaign plagued by injuries, United are desperate to bring in a commanding, ball-playing centre-half.
De Ligt has reportedly agreed in principle to a move to Old Trafford, pending negotiations between United and Bayern Munich. However, concerns over his fitness have emerged after the 24-year-old suffered a minor knee issue in late April, which ruled him out of the Bundesliga run-in. Though Bayern initially downplayed the severity of the injury, Dutch national team manager Ronald Koeman confirmed last week that De Ligt was undergoing a “personalised training programme” and was yet to be cleared for full contact work.
De Ligt Injury Timeline:
Injury: Knee inflammation
Sustained: Late April 2025
Status: In training, not fully match fit
Expected Return: Late June 2025 (potential group stage cameo in Euro 2024)
While the Netherlands are optimistic he’ll feature in the latter stages of the Euros, Manchester United’s medical staff will want a full assessment before any deal is finalized. The club has learned from past mistakes with injury-prone signings and will be cautious, particularly given the potential £50–60 million price tag involved.
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Leny Yoro – Teen Sensation Under Monitoring Amid Minor Setback
Leny Yoro is one of the most exciting young defenders in European football, and Manchester United have identified the 18-year-old Lille centre-back as a key long-term solution. While Real Madrid are reportedly favourites to land Yoro, United remain in contention and have been keeping close tabs on his physical condition — especially after the youngster was withdrawn from Lille’s final Ligue 1 fixture in May due to muscle fatigue.
Yoro has enjoyed a breakthrough campaign, making over 30 appearances and showcasing maturity far beyond his age. But given the demands of top-flight football, it’s not uncommon for young players to experience minor muscular issues. Lille confirmed that Yoro was left out as a precaution and not due to a serious injury.
Yoro Injury Timeline:
Injury: Muscle fatigue (unspecified)
Sustained: Mid-May 2025
Status: Rested as a precaution
Expected Return: Early June 2025
With no major tournament commitments this summer, Yoro is expected to be fully fit for pre-season training, whether at Lille or elsewhere. Manchester United will likely conduct a medical evaluation if negotiations progress, but there is no long-term concern about his condition at this stage.
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Diogo Dalot – Minor Knock After Stellar Season
Perhaps the most reassuring news for Manchester United fans comes in the form of Diogo Dalot. The Portuguese full-back was one of the few consistent performers throughout a turbulent 2024/25 season. Playing on both flanks due to injuries in the squad, Dalot registered several assists, improved defensively, and earned praise for his leadership on the pitch.
Dalot picked up a minor hamstring strain in United’s final Premier League game, prompting fears that he might miss Euro 2024 with Portugal. However, the injury was assessed as minor, and Dalot has already joined up with the national team’s preliminary squad for light training.
Dalot Injury Timeline:
Injury: Minor hamstring strain
Sustained: May 2025 (final league match)
Status: Back in light training
Expected Return: Mid-to-late May 2025 (fully fit for Euro 2024)
Portugal manager Roberto Martínez included Dalot in his final 26-man squad, and the right-back is expected to start in their opening match, barring any setbacks. United fans will hope he remains injury-free throughout the tournament and returns refreshed for pre-season.
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What It Means for Manchester United’s Summer Plans
The injury status of these three defenders carries significant implications for United’s summer transfer and squad planning. Here’s how:
1. Matthijs de Ligt – Fitness May Delay Transfer Completion
United are eager to wrap up deals early to avoid another rushed end to the transfer window. If De Ligt’s fitness doesn’t improve soon, the club may need to delay negotiations or pivot to alternate targets like Jarrad Branthwaite or Antonio Silva. Fitness permitting, De Ligt remains Ten Hag’s top defensive priority.
2. Leny Yoro – Monitoring Development, Not Immediate Fix
Yoro is viewed more as a long-term investment rather than an immediate starter. His minor injury won’t deter interest, but United may face a race against Real Madrid for his signature. If the Spanish giants back off, United could swoop in — provided the price is right.
3. Diogo Dalot – Set to Be Key Figure Again
Dalot’s excellent season and return to fitness have likely cemented his place in Ten Hag’s plans for 2025/26. With Aaron Wan-Bissaka expected to leave this summer, Dalot may start the season as the undisputed first-choice right-back. His recovery timeline is not a concern, and his international experience this summer could further elevate his status.
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Final Thoughts
Manchester United’s injury concerns heading into the summer are a mixed bag. While Diogo Dalot appears ready to go, the situations around Matthijs de Ligt and Leny Yoro will require careful monitoring — both from a transfer and fitness perspective. With a renewed backroom staff and a strategic push to reshape the squad, United will need to balance risk and reward carefully as they navigate what promises to be a crucial off-season.
The hope among fans is that this summer not only brings marquee signings but also begins a new era of proactive, calculated squad management. A fully fit backline — whether anchored by De Ligt, Yoro, Dalot, or others —
will be essential if Manchester United are to return to the top of English and European football.
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