The World Cup ended in anticlimactic fashion for Lisandro Martinez as he was injured in the 0-1 loss to Spain.
Coming into the final, Lisandro Martinez was in the form of his life, emerging as Argentina’s most important player, not named Lionel Messi.
Martinez’s injury comes as a huge blow to Man Utd, who would have been looking forward to welcoming back a world-class player.
The player has now sent his first message since that unfortunate day, prompting a response from David de Gea.
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Lisandro Martinez’s message, David de Gea’s response
Martinez was already a fan favourite among Man Utd fans, but his performances leading up to the final further strengthened that belief.
In a team that didn’t win many admirers due to their conduct and style of play, Martinez was class on and off the pitch.
He was a leader for them, their emotional backbone when all hell broke loose. His absence in the final was always going to cost them, and so it proved.
Martinez’s message was typical of what you expect from a leader, as he wrote the following on his Instagram [translated from Spanish].
“With a heavy heart for not having been able to bring home the cup that we all deserved, but with pride bursting at the seams for this jersey, for my teammates, the coaching staff, the executives, the medical team, the cooks, the kit men, and every single person who was involved to make all of this work in the best possible way. And, above all, for you, who showered us with all your love, all your strength, that passion that so defines us, and the unity of a nation that I hope endures over time.
“I want to congratulate Spain on their well-deserved title. And to our people, I want to say that the result doesn’t define the journey we took. We faced adversities, we made the impossible possible, and we never looked for excuses, only reasons to keep going.
“We defended our colors far beyond the pitch and shared unforgettable moments with the National Team, alongside our families and with the unwavering support of all Argentinians. It will always be an immense pride to represent you.
“Remember that “the fall of the great is the joy of the mediocre. Thank you all so much. Let’s take care of our country. I love you, Argentina!”
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David de Gea wrote in response, “Cabeza alta animal,” which translates to “Animal with its head held high.” Bruno Fernandes was among the players who liked the post.
From United’s perspective, a nervous wait begins to assess the extent of his absence, and with his contract expiring next summer (inc a club option), a decision might have to be made on his future.
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