Sunday saw Lisandro Martinez stretchered off for Manchester United with a great deal of concern around the Argentine.
Lisandro Martinez had been finding immense form for Manchester United under Ruben Amorim.
The Argentina international was showing the form which endeared him to fans in his debut campaign at Old Trafford. However, this impressive run of form and fitness has come to an end.
Amorim predicted that Martinez’s injury was a bad one, and it has turned out to be spot on as the defender’s season is now expected to be over.
The worst possible outcome has come true, with Martinez tearing his knee ligaments – although it is not clear which of the ligaments has been affected. For example, if it is his anterior cruciate ligament then Martinez faces 9-10 months out.
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Lisandro Martinez sent messages of support after cruciate ligament tear
This blow is the last thing United needs as Martinez will be a huge miss in defence as he was in phenomenal form.
Martinez is so important to United and this has been showcased in how his teammates have reacted to his injury.
Amad Diallo wrote: “You will come back stronger hermano”. A message that has now been followed by multiple others.
Martinez’s Argentina and United teammate Alejandro Garnacho was quick to send a message on his Instagram story writing: “You will come back stronger our warrior”, accompanied with a heart emoji.
Also reacting was Martinez’s close friend, £42m midfielder Manuel Ugarte, who wrote on Instagram: “Let’s go up friend, head on to that recovery, you will soon be back”, followed by a flexing emoji.
David de Gea sent his own message, writing on X: “As always you do things… Like a warrior”, accompanied with a heart emoji.
How will Ruben Amorim cope without Martinez?
After losing Martinez, any option in his role will be far from ideal with the drop-down in quality huge. Luke Shaw is the most likely option should he ever manage to remain fit.
With Martinez out Victor Lindelof could find himself useful despite being more than likely to leave the club next summer.
Alternatively, Amorim could turn to new signing Ayden Heaven, as the 18-year-old may be set for a baptism of fire.
Further down, perhaps Godwill Kukonki will get a chance on the left with Amorim already showing faith in the 16-year-old.
United will undoubtedly be worse without their Argentine butcher who has on-the-ball abilities which are irreplaceable.
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