Manchester United have a handful of new centre-back pairings to test out this season after the arrival of Leny Yoro and Matthijs de Ligt.
Following the departure of Raphael Varane and Willy Kambwala this summer, it was crucial that United strengthened their centre-back department over the summer.
Ineos delivered, first with a £52m deal for exciting youngster Leny Yoro, followed by the £38m arrival of Matthijs de Ligt.
De Ligt has come off the bench to replace Harry Maguire in both of United’s Premier League matches so far, hinting that Erik ten Hag may want to use the former Ajax duo of De Ligt and Lisandro Martinez in a long-term partnership.
Yoro could also enter the equation, but the 18-year-old suffered a fractured metatarsal against Arsenal in pre-season and isn’t set to return until October.
Lisandro Martinez names dream centre-back partnership
Martinez has a key role to play for United this season. He transformed the team on his return from injury last season and he has started the new campaign in brilliant form.
Ten Hag has hailed Martinez’s “winning” mentality and whatever centre-back partnership the Dutchman chooses as his first choice, it will almost certainly include the Argentine.
Speaking ahead of United’s clash against Liverpool on Sunday afternoon, Martinez was asked about his dream centre-back partner, and he was quick to choose a fellow World Cup winner.
“Sergio Ramos,” Martinez said on Sky Sports when asked about his favourite centre-back. “Another fighter but with a big personality and a leader on the pitch.
“Yeah, I loved the way he played throughout his career and the many titles he won.
When asked if Sergio Ramos was his dream centre-back partner, Martinez replied “Yeah, I would say so.
“Always with control. You can be aggressive but with control.” Martinez added when suggested that he and Ramos would be an aggressive duo.
The opportunity for Martinez to partner Ramos at Old Trafford has passed with the Spaniard now 38 years old, but with four Champions Leagues and a World Cup winners medal in his cabinet, he is certainly a great pick and role model for the United star.
Man United have solved their defensive crisis
United’s defence last season was nothing short of a disaster. The injury crisis at the club left Ten Hag with little to no options at the back.
Jonny Evans making 30 appearances last season – despite initially joining as the fifth-choice option – highlights just how dire the situation was.
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But in De Ligt, Yoro and Noussair Mazraoui, United have brought in quality and depth to Ten Hag’s squad.
The two goals conceded against Brighton prove that there is plenty of work to be done, but the club finally has the right personnel to solve their defensive issues.
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