Manchester United's defensive woes have intensified with the news that Lisandro Martinez is facing another significant spell on the sidelines after suffering a fresh calf injury during training.
The Argentine centre-back, who had only recently returned from a lengthy absence, sustained the setback in preparation for Saturday's Premier League clash against Bournemouth, casting serious doubts over his availability for the remainder of the campaign.
Another Major Blow for Ten Hag's Defensive Plans
Martinez's latest injury comes as a devastating blow to manager Erik ten Hag, who has seen his defensive options repeatedly compromised this season. The 26-year-old had been working his way back to full fitness following a previous knee problem that required surgery.
This marks the third separate injury setback for Martinez this season, with the defender having managed just 11 appearances across all competitions. His absence has been keenly felt in United's backline, which has struggled for consistency throughout the campaign.
Timeline Raises Serious Concerns
Medical staff at Carrington are now assessing the extent of the damage, but early indications suggest the defender could be unavailable for several weeks. With only six Premier League matches remaining this season, there are genuine fears that Martinez may not feature again before the summer break.
The timing couldn't be worse for United, who face crucial fixtures in their push for European qualification. Martinez's composed presence and ball-playing ability from defence have been sorely missed during his various absences.
What This Means for United's Run-In
With Martinez joining an already crowded treatment room, Ten Hag faces selection headaches ahead of matches against Bournemouth, Sheffield United, and Burnley. The Dutch manager must now rely on alternative defensive partnerships as United look to salvage their season.
This latest development raises questions about Martinez's long-term durability and represents another chapter in what has been a frustrating season for both player and club.
