Manchester United are set to receive a significant boost ahead of the 2025/26 campaign as star defender Lisandro Martinez inches closer to a highly anticipated return from injury. The Argentine centre-back, who has been a crucial part of United’s defensive setup since arriving from Ajax, could soon be back in action at Old Trafford.
Martinez’s tenacious style of play, aggressive tackling, and leadership at the back quickly made him a fan favorite among the Red Devils faithful. However, a serious knee injury earlier this year had sidelined him for an extended period, casting doubts over his availability for the opening months of the new season.
Fortunately for United fans, fresh updates from The Athletic suggest that Martinez’s recovery is ahead of schedule and that his return to competitive football is now on the horizon.
Positive Progress: Martinez Eyeing Early September Comeback
According to recent reports, Lisandro Martinez has shown remarkable improvement in his rehabilitation process. After several months on the sidelines, the 27-year-old defender has now resumed light training sessions with the first team and is said to be making excellent physical progress.
While his initial recovery timeline predicted a return towards the end of 2025, new developments indicate that Martinez could potentially be fit enough to feature as early as September. However, the Manchester United coaching staff is likely to take a cautious approach.
With an international break scheduled in mid-September, Martinez’s first full return to action might only occur after the break, ensuring he’s fully prepared to withstand the demands of top-flight football again.
United Prioritize Caution Over Urgency
Despite the excitement surrounding his imminent return, sources close to the club have emphasized that Manchester United will not rush Martinez back into competitive play. Given the severity of his knee injury, medical staff are proceeding carefully to avoid any setbacks or recurrence.
The club’s sports science and medical team are monitoring his fitness levels closely and are expected to give him the green light only when he reaches peak condition. United are keen to ensure that when Martinez does return, he’s not just match-ready — but also injury-resilient.
Defensive Depth Holds Firm in Martinez’s Absence
While Martinez’s return will certainly enhance Manchester United’s backline, the Red Devils have managed to maintain defensive stability in his absence. Emerging talents like Ayden Heaven and Tyler Fredricson have stepped up during pre-season, showing promising signs of their potential to compete at the senior level.
In addition, Noussair Mazraoui and Luke Shaw have provided versatile options in defensive roles, adding depth and flexibility to Erik ten Hag’s tactical plans.
Though Martinez’s presence brings undeniable quality and confidence to the squad, the current lineup has shown resilience, allowing the club to manage his absence without major setbacks.
What This Means for Manchester United in 2025/26
Martinez’s return will be a major morale boost for both the squad and supporters. His leadership on and off the pitch, combined with his ability to marshal the defense under pressure, could be a deciding factor in United’s ambitions to challenge for silverware this season — especially with the Premier League, FA Cup, and Champions League campaigns underway.
If everything goes as planned, fans can expect to see Lisandro Martinez back in the heart of defense shortly after the September international window, possibly featuring in one of the crucial fixtures that follow.
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