United confirmed the 26-year-old underwent what the club described as a "corrective procedure", with the defender now expected to remain sidelined until the beginning of the 2026-27 campaign.
"After six months of treatment and working hard to get back, surgery was the only option left," De Ligt stated on social media, under a photo of him in a hospital bed.
The setback also ends any hope of De Ligt returning in time for the World Cup, which will be hosted by United States, Mexico and Canada.
"I'm disappointed I couldn't help the team the last six months and obviously missing out on the World Cup, but I am looking forward to doing everything to get back in front of the fans and feeling better again," said De Ligt.
De Ligt had initially shown promising form earlier in the season before his campaign unravelled through injury problems.
The former Juventus and Bayern Munich centre-back has not featured since United's 2-1 victory over Crystal Palace at the end of November.
"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," De Ligt added in a statement released by United.
"I am grateful to everyone who has supported me throughout a difficult period in my career. I remain as determined as ever to represent Manchester United and play in front of our incredible supporters as soon as possible."
Although De Ligt returned to individual grass training last month as part of his rehabilitation programme, the decision to proceed with surgery ultimately ruled him out for the remainder of the season.
Bafana Bafana will officially announce their final squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup on May 27 at the Union Buildings in Pretoria, according to South African Football Association (SAFA) president Danny Jordaan.
Bryan Mbeumo has said he is "delighted" with his decision to join Manchester United, insisting his first season at Old Trafford has confirmed he made the right choice after leaving Brentford in 2025.
Morocco head coach Mohamed Ouahbi has outlined a cautious but optimistic approach to squad selection ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with fitness concerns shaping his final decisions.
Joao Pedro has thrown his support behind Harry Kane, saying the Bayern Munich forward has the quality to win the Ballon d'Or this year.
