Full Breakdown
Lisandro Martínez’s Injury Outlook and Manchester United’s Defensive Outlook
7/28/2026, 2:17:04 PM
Injury Overview and Projected Return
Lisandro Martínez, the Argentina-international centre-back, was forced off in the first half of the World Cup final after Argentina’s 1–0 loss to Spain. The injury, described by United’s medical chief Andy Mitten as a thigh problem, is not considered severe. Mitten indicated that the club expects Martínez to be ready for the opening weekend of the 2026–27 Premier League season, when United travel to newly promoted Hull City.
Recent Injury History
Martínez’s 2025–26 campaign was repeatedly disrupted. He missed 41 games after a fractured metatarsal, endured a torn ACL that sidelined him for more than nine months, and has faced recurring muscular setbacks during his post-ACL recovery. The latest hamstring issue, while adding to his injury tally, is viewed as less serious than previous ailments.
Impact on United’s Defensive Plans
With no defensive signing confirmed in the summer window, manager Michael Carrick is expected to rely on the players already at his disposal. The club’s optimism about Martínez’s return is tempered by the continued absence of fellow defender Matthijs de Ligt, whose back injury is described as “complicated.” United’s medical team has indicated that de Ligt’s recovery is now targeted for the autumn, meaning he will miss the early part of the 2026–27 season.
Other Defensive Concerns
De Ligt’s last appearance for United came in a 2–1 victory over Crystal Palace in late 2025. United announced in May that he had undergone a corrective procedure intended to keep him out for the summer, with hopes of a return at the start of the next season. However, the procedure’s delayed progress pushes his expected comeback to the autumn, leaving United with a reduced defensive roster at the season’s outset.
Overall, United’s defensive depth will hinge on Martínez’s timely recovery and the eventual return of de Ligt later in the campaign.
