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Manchester United fans have endured plenty of anxiety over Lisandro Martínez's fitness, and alarm bells rang once again when Argentina's left-footed center back was forced off during the first half of the World Cup final.
Martínez played a key role in helping the defending champions reach the final, but he was unable to prevent Spain from claiming the title from Argentina in New Jersey. Ferran Torres scored the match's decisive goal in extra time after Argentina was reduced to 10 men following Enzo Fernández's second yellow card prior to the additional period.
Both Martínez and his center back partner Cristian Romero were sidelined through injury, despite putting in commanding performances against Spanish pressure for much of their time on the field.
Although the final ended in disappointment for Argentina, Martínez was subsequently included in FIFA's Dream XI, acknowledging his outstanding individual tournament.
Nevertheless, his exit from the showpiece match sparked concern among supporters back in Manchester.
What Injury Does Lisandro Martinez Have?
Martínez appears to be dealing with a thigh problem, which at least marks a change from the recurring setbacks that have defined his time at Man Utd.
The center back has been sidelined for extended spells due to foot, knee, and calf problems since arriving at Old Trafford. His debut season was cut short by a fractured metatarsal, while a series of ailments caused him to miss 41 matches during the 2023–24 campaign. The 28-year-old was absent for over nine months in 2025 following a torn ACL, prompting thoughts of premature retirement.
Muscular complications have hindered Martínez's post-ACL rehabilitation, which was largely anticipated, but this latest thigh concern does not appear to be particularly serious.
When Will Lisandro Martinez Be Fit Again for Man Utd?
The injury Martínez picked up in the World Cup final is not thought to be a serious concern. Manchester United remain calm, and Andy Mitten understands the club is confident Martínez will be ready in time for the opening weekend of the 2026–27 Premier League season. The Red Devils travel to newly promoted Hull City on Aug. 22.
The club has yet to make a defensive signing in the summer transfer window, with Michael Carrick set to rely on his existing options. He will also be hoping to have Matthijs de Ligt available before long, though the Dutchman still has considerable ground to cover before returning to full fitness.
Martinez Not Man Utd's Only Injury Concern
Strikingly, nearly a full year will have elapsed by the time De Ligt is expected to recover from his "complicated" back injury.
The Dutchman last featured for Man Utd in a 2–1 victory over Crystal Palace on Nov. 30, 2025, when Ruben Amorim was still in charge.
Concrete updates on De Ligt's condition have been scarce throughout his prolonged absence, with the defender having missed the entirety of Carrick's reign so far. In May, United confirmed De Ligt had undergone a "corrective procedure" that would rule him out for the summer, with hopes of a return at the beginning of the 2026–27 season.
Mitten reports that his recovery has been pushed back further, with an autumn comeback now the revised target.