Manchester United have received a positive Lisandro Martinez injury update after the defender was forced off during Argentina’s World Cup final defeat.
The problem is not considered serious, and the 28-year-old should recover before the 2026/27 Premier League season begins.
Martínez started against Spain in New Jersey but left the pitch shortly before half-time. The centre-back appeared to suffer a muscular problem as Argentina lost the final 1-0.
His withdrawal created concern following several injury-hit seasons at Old Trafford. Martínez returned from a serious knee problem during the 2025/26 campaign before earning his place in Argentina’s World Cup squad.
Lisandro Martinez injury update before Man Utd opener
Andy Mitten reports that United are not worried about the latest setback. The Argentina international is expected to be available when Michael Carrick’s side begin their league campaign away to Hull City on 22 August.
“United are not concerned that Lisandro Martinez’s injury which saw him leave the field in the World Cup final is a serious one,” Mitten wrote in The National’s Manchester United pre-season update.
The positive Lisandro Martinez injury update provides Carrick with some welcome relief. Matthijs de Ligt remains sidelined following back surgery and may not return until the autumn.
Leny Yoro, Harry Maguire and Ayden Heaven have featured during pre-season, but Martínez offers a different profile on the left of United’s defence. His passing through pressure and aggressive defending could remain central to Carrick’s plans.
Read Man Utd initially covered the concern surrounding Martínez after he requested treatment during the final. The early assessment now suggests he avoided another lengthy absence.
Martínez will receive time away following Argentina’s run to the final before beginning his recovery programme. United can then gradually prepare him for the opening trip to Hull rather than rushing him into their remaining friendlies.
