In a match that carried both emotional weight and high stakes, Manchester United secured a dramatic 2-1 victory over Leicester City in the FA Cup fourth round, booking their place in the next stage of the competition. However, the game was about more than just the result. It was a poignant reminder of the unity and resilience within the squad, as the Red Devils paid tribute to their injured teammate, Lisandro Martinez, before kick-off.
A Touching Tribute to ‘The Butcher’
The mood at Old Trafford was sombre yet defiant as Manchester United prepared to face Leicester City. Just days earlier, the club had confirmed devastating news: Lisandro Martinez, the tenacious Argentine defender affectionately nicknamed ‘The Butcher’, had suffered a cruciate ligament injury (ACL) during the 2-0 defeat to Crystal Palace. The injury is one of the most severe in football, and it is almost certain to rule Martinez out for the remainder of the season.
Martinez’s absence is a significant blow for United. Since his arrival from Ajax, the 25-year-old has become a fan favourite, admired for his combative style, leadership, and unwavering commitment.
Before the match, the United squad sent a powerful message of solidarity to their sidelined teammate. During their warm-up, the players donned special jackets and t-shirts emblazoned with the words ‘Mucha Fuerza Licha’ – Spanish for “Lots of strength, Licha” (a nickname for Lisandro). The gesture was a touching display of support, highlighting the close-knit bond within the squad and their determination to rally in Martinez’s absence.
A Game of Two Halves
The match itself was a microcosm of United’s season so far: a slow start followed by a spirited fightback. Leicester City, currently flying high in the Championship, took the game to United in the first half. The visitors looked sharper and more cohesive, capitalising on United’s lack of intensity to take the lead. A defensive lapse allowed Bobby de Cordova-Reid to pounce on a rebound and slot the ball past Andre Onana, sending the travelling fans into raptures.
Old Trafford, meanwhile, was a cauldron of frustration. The first-half performance was emblematic of United’s recent struggles: disjointed, lacking in creativity, and vulnerable at the back. The absence of Martinez was keenly felt, as Leicester exploited gaps in United’s defence with ease. The half-time whistle was met with a chorus of boos, a stark reminder of the standards expected at this storied club.
Second-Half Resurgence
Whatever Amorim said at half-time, it worked. United emerged for the second half with renewed purpose and intensity. The introduction of Alejandro Garnacho injected much-needed energy into the attack, and the young winger quickly became a thorn in Leicester’s side. United’s persistence paid off in the 68th minute when Joshua Zirkzee capitalised on a loose ball in the box to equalise, sending Old Trafford into a frenzy.
The momentum had shifted, and United pushed for a winner. Garnacho was at the heart of everything, tormenting Leicester’s defence with his pace and trickery. However, it was Harry Maguire who ultimately delivered the decisive moment. In the 93rd minute, the England defender rose highest to meet a Bruno Fernandes free-kick, powering a header past the Leicester goalkeeper to secure a dramatic victory.
A Message of Unity
The win was a testament to United’s character and resilience, qualities that Martinez has embodied since his arrival at the club. Speaking after the match, Amorim praised his team’s response to adversity. “We showed great spirit to come back and win the game. It was a difficult week for us, especially with the news about Lisandro. But the players showed they are united and ready to fight for each other.”
Amorim also took a moment to acknowledge the tribute to Martinez. “Lisandro is a warrior, and he will come back stronger. The players wanted to show their support for him, and I think that gave us extra motivation today. We will miss him, but we have to keep going.”
Looking Ahead
While the victory keeps United’s FA Cup dreams alive, the road ahead is fraught with challenges. Martinez’s injury is a significant setback, and Amorim will need to find a way to compensate for his absence. The likes of Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelöf will be called upon to step up, while the midfield and attack must also contribute to easing the defensive burden.
For now, though, United can take pride in a hard-fought win that was as much about heart as it was about skill. The tribute to Martinez served as a reminder of the bond that exists within the squad, and the victory was a fitting way to honour their fallen teammate. As the season progresses, United will need to channel that same spirit if they are to achieve their goals.
For Lisandro Martinez, the road to recovery will be long and arduous. But if there’s one thing the Argentine has shown since arriving at Old Trafford, it’s that he is a fighter. And as the message on those warm-up t-shirts declared, the entire club is behind him: Mucha Fuerza, Licha.
"Stay strong, Licha!" ❤️
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) February 7, 2025
Our players are wearing special warm-up shirts today, in support of @LisandrMartinez 🫶🇦🇷#MUFC || #FACup pic.twitter.com/teIXLT0krE
