Manchester United defender Lisandro Martínez is expected to miss the remainder of the season after suffering a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), according to reports from TyC Sports.
The Argentine centre-back was stretchered off during United’s 2-0 home defeat to Crystal Palace on Sunday, visibly in pain as he left the pitch at Old Trafford. TyC Sports, an Argentine outlet, has now confirmed that the 27-year-old has sustained an ACL injury, ruling him out for the rest of the campaign.
United manager Ruben Amorim, who has overseen eight defeats since taking charge of the club, described the injury as “serious” and acknowledged that Martínez is facing a “difficult moment”. Speaking to Sky Sports after the match, Amorim said: “We are going to see in the next days, but I think it is a serious situation. He felt it, and when you are a player, you know when it is something serious.
“He is not only a great player but a strong character in the dressing room. We are here to help him in this difficult moment, like he has helped us.”
Martínez has been a key figure for United this season, making 32 appearances across all competitions, including 20 starts in their 24 Premier League matches. His absence leaves a significant void in United’s defence, with Harry Maguire, Leny Yoro, Matthijs de Ligt, and Victor Lindelöf now the primary options at centre-back.
🚨⚠️ 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
Defensive Reinforcements
During the January transfer window, United bolstered their defensive ranks by signing 20-year-old left-back Patrick Dorgu from Lecce and 18-year-old centre-back Ayden Heaven from Arsenal. However, it remains unclear how much first-team action either player will see this season, particularly as Amorim looks to navigate a challenging period for the club.
Martínez’s injury is a major blow for United, both on and off the pitch. Known for his tenacity, leadership, and technical ability, the Argentine has become a fan favourite since joining the club. His absence will not only weaken United’s defensive solidity but also deprive the team of a vocal presence in the dressing room.
As United prepare for the final stretch of the season, Amorim faces the difficult task of reshuffling his defensive options while maintaining morale within the squad. With Martínez sidelined, the pressure will increase on the remaining defenders to step up and fill the void left by one of the team’s most influential players.
