Lisandro Martinez injury update and potential return for Manchester United

By Callum Ashford — 27 July 2026 — 3 min read

Martinez’s Injury and Recovery Outlook

Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez sustained an injury during the World Cup final, where Argentina faced Spain. Martinez was forced off the field in the first half of the match. This incident raised concerns among supporters, particularly given his history with injuries since joining Manchester United.

The injury Martinez sustained in the final is reportedly a thigh issue. This differs from previous setbacks he has experienced during his time at Old Trafford. He has previously missed significant periods due to foot, knee, and calf injuries, including a fractured metatarsal and a torn ACL.

Despite the recent injury, Manchester United is reportedly optimistic about Martinez’s recovery. The club believes he could be fit in time for the start of the 2026–27 Premier League season. The Red Devils are scheduled to visit Hull City on August 22 for their opening fixture.

Club’s Defensive Situation

Martinez’s injury adds to the defensive concerns for Manchester United. The club has not yet made a defensive signing in the current summer transfer window. Manager Michael Carrick is expected to rely on his existing squad.

Another key defender, Matthijs de Ligt, is also recovering from a back injury. De Ligt last played for Manchester United in November 2025. His return, initially hoped for at the start of the 2026–27 season, has been further delayed, with autumn now targeted for his comeback.

Martinez’s past injury record includes missing 41 games during the 2023–24 campaign and over nine months of 2025 due to a torn ACL. Muscular issues have also affected his recovery post-ACL surgery.

Fan Sentiment and World Cup Performance

Following Martinez’s latest injury in the World Cup final, a poll was conducted asking readers if Manchester United should retain the player. Of the 5,024 supporters who responded, 58 percent voted against keeping him, citing his frequent injuries. Conversely, 37 percent believed the club should keep him, acknowledging his unreliability but emphasizing his importance when available.

Despite the injury, Martinez’s performance at the World Cup was recognized with his inclusion in FIFA‘s Dream XI. He had established himself as a preferred center-back for Argentina and started the final.

Lisandro Martinez (M) | Goal Credit: punchng.com

Argentina’s World Cup campaign concluded with a 1-0 extra-time defeat to Spain in the final. The match saw Ferran Torres score the decisive goal after Argentina was reduced to 10 men when Enzo Fernández received a second yellow card.

Martinez and his center-back partner Cristian Romero both sustained injuries during the final. Martinez has also addressed criticism directed at Argentina following their World Cup campaign, describing it as an “anti-Argentina campaign.”

He stated that there is “no real reason” for people to dislike the national team, countering accusations of arrogance and aggressive play. Martinez maintained that the team has always been respectful towards opponents, despite controversy surrounding their conduct during the tournament and celebrations.

The defender’s comments followed a social media post after the final defeat, where he wrote that “the fall of the great is the happiness of the mediocre.”