New Delhi: Lisandro Martinez will not play again this season after suffering a serious knee injury during Manchester United’s 2-0 loss to Crystal Palace at Old Trafford. The Argentine defender went down in the second half after a challenge with Ismaila Sarr and had to be stretchered off in tears.
Early reports suggest Martinez has torn a cruciate ligament, leaving Manchester United without one of their most reliable defenders. The club is expected to confirm the full extent of the injury within the next 24 hours, but sources close to the dressing room fear the worst.
Manchester United face a defensive crisis
🚨⚠️ Lisandro Martínez has torn his ACL and his season is now over, reports TyC Sports. pic.twitter.com/ydpDIPQRJp
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) February 3, 2025
This is another major injury setback for Martinez, who has struggled with fitness issues since joining United. Last season, he missed months with a fractured metatarsal and also suffered ligament damage in his knee. His absence leaves Ruben Amorim with limited options at the back.
Manchester United now have just a handful of fit centre-backs. Victor Lindelof is available again after a long absence, but Jonny Evans is still recovering from injury. Luke Shaw is training again but has not played since February last year. With Ayden Heaven only 18 and having minimal experience, Amorim may be forced to rely on makeshift solutions.
Martinez has been crucial for United this season, playing 32 matches and delivering strong performances in big games. He scored against Liverpool and Fulham recently and was even voted second in United’s Player of the Month poll for January. His leadership and aggressive style will be sorely missed.
United could be forced into a last-minute move in the transfer window to cover for Martinez’s absence. The club has made emergency signings before, such as bringing in Marcel Sabitzer on deadline day in 2023 after Christian Eriksen’s injury. However, with limited time left, Amorim might have to work with what he has.
Lisandro Martinez will miss the rest of the season after suffering a serious knee injury, leaving Manchester United facing a defensive crisis with limited options at centre-back. Football Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
