Manchester United fans and sports betting enthusiasts alike are eagerly awaiting the return of Lisandro Martinez, who is reportedly set to make his comeback from a knee injury in the team's upcoming match against Brentford on March 30.
The 26-year-old centre-back has had a challenging 2023-24 campaign, with injuries limiting him to just ten appearances for the Red Devils. He missed an extended period earlier this season following his second foot operation of the year.
Martinez made a brief return to action in January but was sidelined again after suffering a knee injury during a match against West Ham United at the start of February.
Martinez was named in the recent friendlies for Argentina
Despite being named in Argentina squad for their March friendlies with El Salvador and Costa Rica, Manchester United clarified that he would not participate due to his ongoing recovery process.
Manchester United released statement:
"Lisandro Martinez is not yet ready to return from a knee injury but is joining up with the Argentina squad in the United States,"
"The defender will continue the final steps in his rehabilitation there but will not feature in the matches against El Salvador and Costa Rica.
"It has been decided that Lisandro will benefit from training with his international colleagues as he regains fitness, rather than staying at Carrington, where there will be few players training next week."
The Argentine defender is close to return to full match-fitness
According to Sky Sports News, Martinez is now nearing the end of his rehabilitation process. There is growing optimism within Manchester United that he could be back on the pitch against Brentford next Saturday.
Since joining from Ajax in summer 2022, Martinez has been one of Erik ten Hag's most successful signings for Manchester United. The defender has made 55 appearances for the club despite battling various injuries throughout his tenure.
His previous season (2022-23) was cut short due to a fractured metatarsal suffered during a Europa League match against Sevilla which required surgical intervention. Despite returning for pre-season training, persistent foot pain led him back into surgery after medical scans revealed further issues.
Before picking up his knee issue in the West Ham fixture earlier this year, Martinez played three times against Tottenham Hotspur, Newport County and Wolverhampton Wanderers respectively.
Martinez’s return crucial for Champions League qualification
With hopes high about securing glory in FA Cup and securing Champions League football for the 2024-25 campaign, Manchester United and Martinez are eager to see him back in action.
Martinez's return could provide a significant boost to the team's defensive line and overall performance. His experience and skills will be crucial as Manchester United navigates this critical period of their season.
While injuries have marred Lisandro Martinez's time at Manchester United, his potential return could mark a turning point in the club’s current campaign. As sports fans and betting enthusiasts watch with bated breath, it is hoped that his comeback will bring much-needed stability to the Red Devils' defence.
