Lisandro Martínez is facing a lengthy spell on the sidelines, with a recovery window expected to stretch around ten weeks and a remote chance that another procedure on his foot could be needed. The defender’s latest setback compounds a previous season marked by a serious foot issue that required surgery and disrupted his rhythm just as Manchester United looked to form stability at the back.
Last season, Martínez spent almost two months out following a metatarsal fracture in his right foot, an injury that interrupted a promising run of games. He managed to return to pre-season action, but the issue resurfaced in a recent 3-1 loss to Arsenal, casting further doubt on his availability in the weeks ahead. The Telegraph reports that United are now weighing the possibility of a second operation to address lingering complications in the same foot, a decision that could dictate whether he can contribute again this year or be forced to delay his return beyond the initial timeline.
Beyond Martínez, Manchester United are coping with a backlog of fitness concerns across the squad. The team currently navigates without several preferred full-backs, with Tyrell Malacia, Luke Shaw, Aaron Wan-Bissaka, and Sergio Reguilón all sidelined. In addition, a number of first-team regulars are missing due to various illnesses and injuries, including Amad Diallo, Scott McTominay, Kobbie Mainoo, and Christian Eriksen. The club is also managing a complex squad situation with Jadon Sancho, who remains unavailable amid the ongoing club dispute, while Antony has regained eligibility and is once again available for selection.
During this period, the concern for Martínez goes beyond a single fixture list. If the club ultimately determines that surgery is unavoidable, it would mean a longer absence that could stretch into 2024 before he can rejoin competitive action. The rationale behind such a decision would hinge on the balance between a swift return and ensuring the long-term health of the metatarsal, a factor that has a direct bearing on the team’s defensive solidity and tactical setup for the remainder of the season.
As Manchester United assess whether to pursue additional treatment, supporters in Canada, the United States, and across the globe watch closely. The defender’s situation is not just about a club’s immediate needs; it also touches on broader questions about player longevity, the management of foot injuries in modern football, and how clubs navigate medical decisions when schedules are dense and stakes are high. The unfolding scenario at Old Trafford illustrates the delicate interplay between recovery timelines, medical advice, and the imperative to field a competitive squad in high-stakes matches.
Source: Goal