Manchester United have confirmed that center back Lisandro Martinez has suffered an ACL injury.
MORE — Man United vs Crystal Palace recap
Martinez was stretchered off the Old Trafford pitch in tears after suffering the injury in the 2-0 defeat against Crystal Palace on Sunday. Martinez was in a challenge with Jean-Philippe Mateta when his knee seemed to bend in an awkward direction. He immediately hit the grass and called for medical attention.
The 27-year-old defender has been one of United’s most regular contributors this year. This is a huge blow for Martinez and United.
Lisandro Martinez injury update
A statement was released on Thursday confirming United’s worst fears, as they said “assessment of the injury is ongoing to determine the appropriate course of treatment and the timescale for his rehabilitation.”
The club added: “Everyone at Manchester United wishes Lisandro Martinez strength for a successful recovery and we will be supporting him every step of the way.”
Speaking straight after the defeat against Palace, United’s manager Ruben Amorim revealed how big a loss Martinez would be.
“A bad situation for us and especially for Licha,” Amorim said. “It’s really hard on us, he’s not just a great player but a strong character in the dressing room. Especially in this moment, it’s hard for us.
“Now it is time for all of us to help Licha. He felt it and, when you are a player, you know when it is serious. Let’s hope for better days for him. We are here, like I say, to help him in this difficult moment.”
What now for Martinez, Man United?
United will lean on Harry Maguire, Matthijs De Ligt, Leny Yoro, Jonny Evans and Victor Lindelof at center back for the rest of the season, but Martinez is going to miss a big chunk of 2025.
That means United could well dip into the transfer market for a new center back in the summer with Evans and Lindelof out of contract.
Martinez has been a real leader for United since he arrived from Ajax and the Argentine international is a fans favorite. He also fits Amorim’s 3-4-3 system really well as he needs aggressive, front-footed defenders. Martinez is definitely that and United will badly miss his presence at the back.
