Lisandro Martinez was given a hero’s reception when he was presented at Old Trafford on Tuesday night for his first appearance at the stadium since the World Cup.
Martinez walked onto the pitch wearing his World Cup winners’ medal, earned by playing 301 minutes for Argentina at the tournament in Qatar.
The centre-back was already a fan favourite at Manchester United after his committed performances following his summer move from Ajax, and supporters were keen to show much much he is admired.
A huge Argentina flag was unfurled at Old Trafford with a butcher’s knife pictured on it, a tribute to Martinez’s nickname.
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A great reception for Lisandro Martinez at Old Trafford
It was a great reception for Lisandro Martinez at Old Trafford, in a game which saw him come off the bench for the final few minutes to make his return to action.
The defender was highly appreciative of the gestures from both the club itself and the fans to welcome him back.
He wrote on Instagram: “No words… ❤️ Thank you to Old Trafford, my teammates and the staff for this amazing reception. 🙌🏼👏🏼 Feels great to be back & winning!”
Martinez’s Argentine colleagues have also been impressed, with former teammates and connections reaching out to him in response.
Former Argentina international and World Cup star Juan Pablo Sorin was among those to respond to the Manchester United defender.
Sorin wrote: “CONGRATULATIONS Lisandro for that love and recognition that you earned with soccer + a lot of personality and character. Thank you for the infinite joy. Enjoy everything.”
His former Defensa y Justicia teammate Nicolas Fernandez wrote: “How nice brother what is happening to you, enjoy it you deserve it.”
Former striker Ignacio Scocco, who once had a brief spell with Sunderland, echoed the responses, writing: “Impressive Licha… I’m very happy, you deserve it.”
Martinez is the fifth Manchester United player in history to win the World Cup while at the club.
His achievement was hard-earned, and it is great to have him back. It’s clear how highly regarded he is in his homeland, and Argentines are in no doubt how much Manchester United supporters admire him.
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