Lisandro Martinez produced a moment of World Cup magic for Argentina against Cape Verde, delivering a perfectly weighted 50-yard pass to Lionel Messi, who finished with aplomb. The assist highlighted Martinez's unique ball-playing ability, offering Manchester United a glimpse of his potential impact if he can overcome persistent injury problems.
Martinez's Assist and Goal Showcase Talent
The Manchester United centre-back collected the ball near the halfway line, surveyed his options, and clipped a sublime pass over the defence onto Messi's left foot. The Argentine captain converted with a first-time finish, celebrating with Martinez. Later, Martinez scored a powerful goal from a half-cleared corner, whipping the ball into the roof of the net. However, it was the assist that lingered in the memory.
According to Tyrone Marshall, Senior Manchester United Football Writer, "that type of pass wouldn't always end in a goal. It only did so because it was Messi, but Martinez knew who he was playing the ball to and knew what was likely to happen if he got it right."
Injury Record Clouds Martinez's Future at Old Trafford
Martinez, 28, is entering the final year of the five-year deal he signed when moving from Ajax for £57million in 2022. United have an option to extend by 12 months, which appears the most likely course of action. However, his injury record raises concerns. After Argentina's win, Martinez revealed he had considered retiring after suffering an ACL injury in February 2025.
Since joining United, Martinez has started only 65 of 152 Premier League games, a low rate for a player of his fee and wages. Manager Michael Carrick, like his predecessors, started Martinez when available. The Argentine formed an excellent partnership with Harry Maguire but suffered a calf injury that sidelined him for five matches. He returned against Leeds but was sent off after 56 minutes, missing another three games. He played every minute of the final three fixtures of the season and has featured heavily for Argentina in the World Cup.
Martinez's Qualities Remain Vital for United
If fit, Martinez offers balance as a left-footed centre-back and game-changing quality on the ball. He can break lines with quick forward passes or pick out long passes to devastating effect, as shown against Cape Verde. No other United defender offers that level of ball-playing ability. Martinez is also an aggressive and uncompromising defender, which partly explains his injury proneness.
Carrick and United are willing to give Martinez every chance to prove his injury record is just bad luck. His World Cup performance served as a reminder of his value and the difference he can make. If he can stay fit, he will play a big role for United this season.
