Lisandro Martinez was seen comforting Kobbie Mainoo after Argentina overcame England in the World Cup semi-final on Tuesday night in Atlanta. The Manchester United defender, who played the full 90 minutes plus injury time, reached his second consecutive World Cup final following a 2-1 victory.
Martinez seeks out Mainoo after final whistle
Despite the jubilation of reaching another final, Martinez took time away from the celebrations to find his club teammate. He was spotted looking for Mainoo before hugging him in the centre circle. The duo exchanged words as their respective teammates either celebrated or mourned the result.
For Mainoo, the tournament has been a personal disappointment. The midfielder did not play a single minute for England in the USA and Mexico, watching from the bench as Thomas Tuchel's side surrendered a one-goal lead, with Anthony Gordon's opener cancelled out by two late Argentina goals.
Controversial post-match scenes
Martinez was involved in controversial scenes after the match, holding up a banner reading "the Falklands are Argentine" in Spanish. The 28-year-old defender will now prepare for the final at MetLife Stadium on Saturday, while England face France in the third-place play-off in Miami.
Mainoo's club future under Michael Carrick
Mainoo may feature in the third-place match as England rotate after their semi-final exit. He will then return to club football under Michael Carrick at Manchester United. Mainoo was integral for Carrick last season and, despite the arrivals of Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans, expects to remain central to United's plans.
Under former manager Ruben Amorim, Mainoo's future at Old Trafford appeared uncertain. However, after Amorim's sacking, the academy graduate was persuaded to sign a new contract in May. Carrick expressed his delight at the time, saying: "I’ve been hugely impressed with Kobbie since I’ve been here. He epitomises this football club, you know? Young players coming through the Academy, who live and breathe the club and come through with real talent."
Pre-season preparations
Mainoo is due to return to pre-season training with Manchester United next month. The squad is already back in training and faces Wrexham this Saturday, Rosenberg on July 24, and Atletico Madrid on August 1.
