Man United Receives Promising Update on Lisandro Martinez's Recovery Before U.S. Tour
Manchester United remain optimistic that injured defender Lisandro Martínez could accompany the team on their upcoming preseason tour across the United States, as the centre-back nears a return to group training sessions, multiple sources indicate.
The World Cup champion endured a serious cruciate ligament injury in February following Man Utd's 2–0 loss to Crystal Palace, sidelining him for the rest of the 2024–25 season. Consequently, he was absent during the club's journey to the Europa League final and their defeat against Tottenham Hotspur in the championship match.
Martinez's expertise and captaincy qualities were deeply missed by Ruben Amorim and the team, with the Red Devils eagerly awaiting the compact defender's injury recovery in the coming period.
Manchester Evening News has shared an encouraging fitness report regarding the 27-year-old, stating he's "making good progress" in his rehabilitation from the knee problem, though Man Utd remains hesitant to provide a specific timeline for his comeback.
Considering the severity of Martínez's injury, a recovery period of six to nine months has been suggested, with more than five months already passed since the incident against Palace.
Although the Argentine is still far from returning to the starting eleven, The Athletic has reported that he's "nearing participation in group training" again and that Amorim hopes to include him in Man Utd's squad for the forthcoming U.S. tour.
Despite not being match-ready, he would join the squad to "maintain rhythm with tactical preparations" and contribute his "inspirational presence", provided medical staff approve his travel. The Red Devils will face West Ham United, Bournemouth and Everton in the Premier League Summer Series across North America.
Martínez did not travel to Stockholm for Man Utd's opening preseason match of the summer against Leeds United on Saturday afternoon, and his Premier League comeback remains "uncertain" as he won't be hurried back into action, though fans will be encouraged to learn he's making solid progress toward full fitness.