Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has confirmed that defender Matthijs de Ligt will miss the Premier League clash with West Ham United but is expected to return for Monday's trip to Wolverhampton Wanderers.
Defensive Blow for Red Devils
The Dutch international, who has been a mainstay in United's backline this season, is absent from the squad for Thursday night's fixture at Old Trafford due to what Amorim described as a 'small' issue. This marks the first match De Ligt has missed in the 2025/26 campaign, having played every minute of league action prior.
"It's a blow. He is playing really, really well," Amorim admitted in his pre-match interview with Premier League Productions. The manager highlighted the timing is particularly difficult given the team is also without the injured Harry Maguire, leaving central defensive options severely depleted.
Heaven's Big Opportunity
In response to the defensive crisis, Amorim has turned to 19-year-old academy prospect Ayden Heaven, handing the teenager his first Premier League start of the season. Heaven, who has been linked with a potential loan move away from the club in the January transfer window, now gets a chance to impress on the big stage.
"I'm really excited with Ayden. He is working hard and I think he has the right characteristics to play there," said the United boss, framing the situation as a significant opportunity for the young defender. Heaven will slot into a backline that also features Diogo Dalot, Luke Shaw, and Noussair Mazraoui.
Yoro's Challenge and Squad Depth
The selection also sees French defender Leny Yoro drop to the substitutes' bench following a challenging performance in the previous match against Crystal Palace. Amorim revealed he has spoken with the young player about managing expectations.
"He thinks too much, he makes a mistake and then he struggles," Amorim explained regarding Yoro. "He wants to do everything so well. He's growing, with games and with setbacks." The manager emphasised that Yoro's visible disappointment showed he cares, but it's a learning process.
With Lisandro Martinez also named among the substitutes, United have cover, but Amorim's primary focus is on the quick return of his key Dutch defender. The former Bayern Munich and Juventus star's consistent presence has been vital, and his manager is confident this setback is only temporary.
"For Matta, it is a small thing. I expect to have Matthijs next game [at Molineux]," Amorim stated, providing a clear and positive timeline for De Ligt's return to Premier League action against Wolves on Monday night.
