Netherlands defender Matthijs de Ligt will miss the World Cup after undergoing surgery on a back injury that has sidelined him since November.
The Manchester United centre-back is now expected to return during the opening phase of next season.
“Matthijs de Ligt has undergone successful surgery to address a back injury,” United said in a statement on Friday.
“Having diligently worked throughout his rehabilitation process, the decision was made that a corrective procedure was the best course of action.”
De Ligt had featured in every minute of United’s opening 13 Premier League matches this season before the injury setback.
“Since November, I have done everything, pushing myself in every session and exploring every option, to get back to doing what I love, playing football,” said the former Juventus and Bayern Munich defender.
“I am grateful to everyone who has supported me throughout a difficult period in my career.”
