Erik ten Hag unsure when Lisandro Martinez will return to Manchester United after World Cup triumph with Argentina
Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag does not know when Lisandro Martinez will return to the club after his 2022 World Cup triumph with Argentina.
The 24-year-old was part of Lionel Scalonis’ 26-man squad that lifted the golden trophy in Qatar. While he did not play a part in the final against France, the centre-back was still pivotal for La Albiceleste at the prestigious tournament.
Speaking to the media via Manchester Evening News, Ten Hag cannot put a timeline of when Martinez will be back for the Red Devils. However, the Dutch manager understands the defender’s celebration with his national side.
“I can’t answer that question now. He’s still celebrating in Argentina, in Buenos Aires, he’s on the tour going around in Buenos Aires! I can understand that, it’s very emotional, very loaded when you win the World Cup [and bring it] into your country, it’s magnificent, it’s the highest you can achieve.
“But Licha Martinez also has to accept that on the 27th the Premier League will go on.”
The 24-year-old did not play in the Poland fixture either in the group stages. However, he got a chance to be on the pitch in every other game in Sacloni’s team’s run to the final.
Against Australia in the round of 16, the centre-back came on as a substitute in the second half. He made a goal-saving block as La Albiceleste managed a 2-1 win over the Socceroos.
Martinez signed for the Old Trafford side in the recent transfer window. He reunited with Ten Hag in Manchester after several successful years in Amsterdam.
The 24-year-old’s start to life in the Premier League was disappointing. United lost the opening two fixtures of the 2022/23 campaign against Brighton & Hove Albion and Brentford.
Subsequently, the Dutch manager made a few changes and dropped Harry Maguire from the starting lineup. Our captain was replaced by Raphael Varane, who partnered the Argentine defender.
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Since then, Martinez has been one of our best players. The centre-back’s aggressiveness and tenacity have made him an instant fan favourite. Hopefully, the 24-year-old can return soon to help the Red Devils achieve some success this season.
