According to journalist Sully, De Ligt participated in Manchester United's behind-closed-doors warm-up match and performed well. However, his availability for the upcoming match against Tottenham remains uncertain. During the international break, Carlos Baleba—who was not called up by his national team—also featured in Manchester United's closed-door warm-up match. The midfielder is edging closer to his Red Devils debut, and his exceptional stamina and physical attributes could prove a significant asset to Carrick's midfield.

De Ligt has not featured in an official match for Manchester United in nearly ten and a half months due to a back injury sustained last season.

Last season, the Dutch international started all 13 of Manchester United's Premier League matches. In late October, he played the full 90 minutes in Manchester United's 2-1 away victory over Crystal Palace before the injury struck. Ruben Amorim initially estimated he would miss only a few weeks.

However, what was expected to be a brief absence became a prolonged layoff, as De Ligt suffered recurring lower back issues.

He initially avoided surgery, hoping to return before the season ended. But by May, the club decided he should undergo the procedure.

In recent months, De Ligt has trained regularly with his teammates. He traveled with the squad for the match against Fulham, which ended in a draw, and appeared in a friendly last week.

Sully previously revealed that the Dutch international made his first appearance of the year in that closed-door friendly, with Baleba also making his Manchester United debut. Several first-team players featured, including Cunha, Mason Mount, Shaw, and Harry Maguire. Viktor Musa, a U21 striker, scored both goals. Amad did not play, while Kobbie Mainoo and Rashford watched from the bench.

Many have questioned whether De Ligt can regain his best form after more than 11 months away from competitive football. However, according to Sully, the 27-year-old defender looks sharp following his return to full training.

It is widely expected that De Ligt is close to making his comeback for Manchester United. With only one clean sheet this season, his return would provide valuable defensive reinforcement for Carrick's team.

De Ligt's fitness for Manchester United's home match against Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday, October 10, remains uncertain. Nonetheless, his return would be welcome news.

Manchester United has struggled defensively this season, making De Ligt's availability particularly important. Before his injury last season, he was performing at an elite level, and his return could give Carrick the defensive stability needed to rebuild the team's backline.

Baleba, signed from Brighton for £65 million, suffered an ankle injury this summer and has not yet made his official debut. He was included in the squad for Manchester United's 1-1 draw against Fulham before the international break. Though not called up by his national team, his inclusion in the league squad is an encouraging sign. After three weeks of training during the international break, the midfielder is approaching his long-awaited debut, and his exceptional stamina and physical attributes could significantly strengthen Carrick's midfield.

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