Lisandro Martinez is one of many Manchester United players who will be spending some time in the treatment room.
After an injury crisis last season, it seemed as though Manchester United had learned from their fitness problems this time around.
However, the Red Devils suddenly find themselves extremely short of options after a flurry of injuries. Ruben Amorim suffered a triple injury blow in midfield ahead of the Tottenham clash, with Kobbie Mainoo ruled out for weeks.
Amad Diallo could be out for the season after suffering an ankle injury and, with Marcus Rashford and Antony on loan, it means United’s attacking options are alarmingly thin.
But before that, Lisandro Martinez suffered a torn ACL against Crystal Palace. He is also ruled out for the remainder of the campaign, but he has his sights set on a return.
Lisandro Martinez issues update after surgery
It was reported on Thursday that Martinez had undergone surgery on his knee with the operation considered a success.
The expected timeline for his recovery is anywhere from eight months to a year, meaning Lisandro Martinez could miss a big portion of the 2025/26 campaign.
But United’s fierce World Cup winner is determined to come back stronger, and he made that point clear in his emotional Instagram update.
Towards the end of his message, Martinez wrote: “Now it’s time to give it my all, with heart and soul, in the rehabilitation process.” Hopefully he makes a swift recovery.
Several United teammates were quick to leave messages of support for Martinez under his post, including Joshua Zirkzee and Mason Mount.
Mount, who is also out injured for United, wrote: “Back stronger brother!” while Zirkzee added: “Love you bro.”
Martinez injury could provide opportunity for young duo
United still have fairly strong depth at centre-back after Martinez’s injury thanks to summer arrivals Matthijs de Ligt and Leny Yoro.
Harry Maguire has also been in good form, while Victor Lindelof and Jonny Evans are ready to step up if needed.
But Martinez’s injury will also provide a golden opportunity for January signing Ayden Heaven, who will be targeting his senior debut this season.
At just 18 years old, United will view Heaven as a star for the future. But he has been brought in as a first-team signing so there is no reason why he can’t compete for a starting spot.
READ MORE: Lisandro Martinez hits back at Paul Scholes after ‘not good enough’ criticism, he doesn’t hold back
Alongside him, academy star Godwill Kukonki has caught Amorim’s eye. The 17-year-old has been promoted to first-team training by the Portuguese head coach, and also included in travelling squads with the first team.
Kukonki and Heaven are the future of United’s defence, and they will want their first taste of first-team football.
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