Manchester United have been dealt a crushing injury setback as Lisandro Martinez is set to miss the rest of the season after tearing his anterior cruciate ligament. Reports from Argentina confirm that the 27-year-old defender will require surgery, ruling him out for at least six to eight months.
Martinez sustained the injury during United’s 2-0 loss to Crystal Palace at Old Trafford on Sunday. The Argentine center-back landed awkwardly after challenging Ismaila Sarr for the ball, immediately clutching his knee before being stretchered off. Post-match, manager Ruben Amorim hinted at the severity of the injury, and his worst fears have now been realized.
A key figure in United’s backline, Martinez had started 14 of the last 15 games under Amorim, cementing his role in the defensive trio. His absence will be a significant loss, with Amorim emphasizing not just his quality on the pitch but also his leadership in tough moments.
United now face a defensive dilemma ahead of their FA Cup fourth-round clash with Leicester City. Matthijs de Ligt, who replaced Martinez against Palace, is the likely candidate to step in, while Victor Lindelof remains another option. However, Jonny Evans is still recovering from a muscle injury, further limiting Amorim’s choices.
This isn’t Martinez’s first battle with injuries—he endured a difficult previous season, managing only 11 league appearances due to fitness setbacks. Now, his latest injury adds to United’s growing list of sidelined players, which includes Luke Shaw and Mason Mount. Shaw, however, has recently returned to first-team training.
The injury blow comes at a critical time, with just hours remaining in the January transfer window. United have already secured left wing-back Patrick Dorgu but may still look for additional reinforcements, particularly in attack after Marcus Rashford’s loan move to Aston Villa.