Exclusive: Matthijs de Ligt suffers back issue

Matthijs de Ligt has become a key part of the set-up at Old Trafford since moving to Manchester United last summer.

Despite joining under Erik ten Hag from Bayern Munich, de Ligt has become a firm favourite of Amorim.

However, for the last two clashes with West Ham and Wolves, the Netherlands international has been left out of the squad.

CentreDevils can now reveal that the centre-back has suffered a minor back issue, ruling him out of action.

Thankfully the issue only seems to be minor, with United giving the defender extra treatment.

Matthijs de Ligt is understood to be experiencing soreness rather than an injury, so being left out of the match-day squads is more of a precautionary step from The Red Devils.

As such, the centre-back is expected to return to Amorim’s line-ups soon with the 26-year-old having already made 56 appearances for United since arriving at Old Trafford.

With Noussair Mazraoui set to be departing in the coming few days to take part in the Africa Cup of Nations, de Ligt’s return will be a major boost to Ruben Amorim heading into the festive period, even if his return date is yet to be confirmed.

Mazraoui is being joined by Amad Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo in leaving Old Trafford for international duty, with the absences set to impact the right-side of Amorim’s squad.

However, for now, United are preparing for their clash with Bournemouth without de Ligt, veteran defender Harry Maguire and new striker Benjamin Sesko.