Manchester United suffered a major setback after defender Lisandro Martínez sustained a serious knee injury during a Premier League match against Crystal Palace at Old Trafford. The incident occurred when Martínez clashed with Crystal Palace forward Ismaïla Sarr. Realizing the severity of his condition, he immediately signaled for medical help. Despite receiving prolonged on-field treatment, he had to be stretchered off in visible distress, causing a six-minute delay in the match.
The club has yet to release an official statement detailing the specifics of Martínez’s injury. However, early evaluations suggest that the Argentine international may have sustained a serious knee issue. If confirmed, this could see him sidelined for a prolonged period, a worrying prospect for both the player and the team, given his crucial contributions to Manchester United’s defensive setup this season.
Since joining United from Ajax in July 2022, Martínez has been a vital figure in the club’s backline. His aggressive defensive approach and ability to play out from the back have made him an integral part of Erik ten Hag’s squad. This season alone, he has featured in 32 matches, starting in 28, highlighting his importance in the team’s defensive structure.
This latest injury adds to a troubling pattern of setbacks for Martínez. Around a year ago, he suffered a medial collateral ligament (MCL) sprain in a match against West Ham United. While that injury did not require surgery, it kept him out for a significant period. The recurrence of a knee injury now raises concerns about his long-term durability and the potential effect on his career.
Manager Erik ten Hag, who previously worked with Martínez at Ajax, expressed deep concern over the defender’s condition. Speaking after the match, he acknowledged the impact of the injury, stating, “It’s a massive loss for us. Lisandro has been a key part of our defense, and his absence will be challenging. We will stand by him during his recovery and hope he returns even stronger.”
The timing of this injury could not be worse for Manchester United. The team is currently dealing with a packed fixture list, competing in both the Premier League and European tournaments. With Martínez sidelined, defensive adjustments will be necessary, with Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelöf expected to take on greater responsibilities at the back.
Fans and teammates have rallied in support of Martínez following the unfortunate incident. Midfielder Bruno Fernandes took to social media to send an encouraging message, writing, “Stay strong, Lisandro. We are all with you and wishing you a swift recovery.” The outpouring of support underscores Martínez’s popularity within the squad and the admiration he commands among supporters.
For now, the club is awaiting a full medical assessment to determine the exact severity of the injury. Scans and further tests will provide clarity on his recovery timeline and the rehabilitation process. In the meantime, Manchester United must find a way to cope with his absence, making tactical and squad adjustments to remain competitive in their ongoing campaigns.
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