Manchester United face an anxious wait over Lisandro Martínez after the defender was forced off injured during Argentina’s World Cup final against Spain.
Martínez started alongside Cristian Romero at the MetLife Stadium but was unable to complete the opening half of the match.
The 28-year-old went down without an obvious challenge shortly before the interval and appeared emotional as he left the pitch. Nicolás Otamendi replaced him in the 44th minute with the final still goalless.
Cadena SER reported that Martínez appeared to suffer a muscular injury, although neither Argentina nor Manchester United have confirmed the nature or severity of the problem.
Carrick must wait for Martínez assessment
Martínez’s withdrawal creates a concern for Michael Carrick as United continue their pre-season preparations.
The centre-back played an important role in Argentina reaching a second consecutive final. ReadManUtd covered how Martínez helped the holders eliminate England in Wednesday’s dramatic semi-final.
United will not know whether Martínez’s return has been delayed until medical examinations establish the full extent of the injury.
His recent fitness history will increase the concern. Martínez fought back from a serious knee injury during the 2025/26 season before earning his place in Argentina’s World Cup squad. Manchester United’s official tournament guide noted that his return from that long-term absence had been completed shortly before the competition.
Carrick has other central defensive options, but Martínez’s aggression, passing and ability to defend higher up the pitch remain difficult to replace.
The positive sign was that he walked off without requiring a stretcher. Until Argentina provide a diagnosis, however, United must wait to discover whether his World Cup final injury will affect the beginning of the new season.
