Lisandro Martinez is set to rejoin Manchester United training this week, marking a significant step in his recovery from an anterior cruciate ligament injury. The Argentina defender has not played for the club since suffering the injury in a 2-0 defeat to Crystal Palace on February 2, 262 days ago.
Martinez has missed 35 games for United during his absence, a major blow for manager Ruben Amorim. The club had hoped he would return to first-team training last week, but his comeback was slightly delayed. Scans have now confirmed that his knee has fully healed, and he is expected to train with his teammates for the first time in eight months.
United are taking a cautious approach to reintegrating Martinez, aware of the challenges posed by ACL injuries. His return will bolster Amorim's defensive options, which already include Harry Maguire, Matthijs de Ligt, Luke Shaw, Leny Yoro, and Ayden Heaven. Martinez was previously a key figure in the three-man defence.
Midfielder Casemiro expressed his anticipation, saying: 'Licha is on the final straight. He is a soldier who works so hard. He is always in the gym working hard. He is a machine that works so hard. It is a pleasure to have him here.' Amorim also highlighted Martinez's influence, stating: 'We miss a lot Licha, especially in this moment, we miss his aggression. But he's always there in every meeting.'
United host Brighton at Old Trafford on Saturday, aiming for a third consecutive win after victories over Sunderland and Liverpool. They currently sit ninth in the Premier League table with 13 points from eight games.
