Manchester United central defender Lisandro Martinez has revealed a shocking chapter in his career, admitting he once considered retiring from football altogether after suffering a severe knee injury last year. The Argentine defender, 27, endured one of the toughest periods of his professional life but has now fought back to reclaim his spot in the Red Devils’ starting lineup.
Struggling with Severe Injuries
Martinez faced a lengthy nine-month layoff following an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury that required surgery. The setback was a major blow to a player who had already faced recurring fitness problems since joining Manchester United in the summer of 2022. Over his time at Old Trafford, Martinez has missed over 85 matches due to injuries, making his journey one of resilience and mental fortitude.
In a candid interview with Argentine media outlet AFA Estudio, Martinez opened up about the emotional toll of his rehabilitation. “You feel like you’re not a footballer anymore. You experience pain and think you’ll never play football again,” he confessed, as reported by Sportmole on January 15, 2026.
Mental and Physical Struggles
The defender admitted that the injury brought not only physical pain but also severe mental challenges, leaving him feeling directionless at times. “Mentally and physically, it was completely chaotic. Honestly, when I think about it now, I don’t know how I got through it. I just held on to the people closest to me, my family and friends,” Martinez explained.
His suffering didn’t stop there. In April 2023, he sustained a fractured metatarsal in his right foot, cutting his season short and requiring a second operation. Between these injuries, Martinez spent a total of 180 days in rehabilitation across two separate periods.
The timing of these injuries was particularly cruel, causing him to miss crucial matches for Manchester United. He was sidelined during the 2023 FA Cup final against Manchester City and the 2024 Europa League final against Tottenham Hotspur due to his ACL injury, moments that could have been highlights of his career.
Hitting Rock Bottom
Martinez admits he reached one of the lowest points in his career during his recovery. “During the first two or three weeks, honestly, I didn’t want to play football anymore,” he revealed.
However, with the support of those around him, Martinez slowly found the strength to push forward. “The easiest path would have been to give up. But I’ve always said, in adversity, your true character shows,” he stated.
Through consistent effort, therapy, and mental conditioning, Martinez regained his focus and rebuilt both his physical and psychological resilience. “Every day felt like a match, a fight in the gym. I also worked with a psychologist, trying to improve in every way possible,” he added.
Returning to Manchester United’s First Team
The hard work paid off. Martinez’s physical condition steadily improved, allowing him to return to the first team in November 2025. “Today, on the pitch, I feel incredible. All that suffering, all the effort to not give up, it’s paying off now,” he said with confidence.
Since returning, Martinez has featured in nine Premier League matches, starting the last four in a row. He has even worn the captain’s armband in three of those games, reflecting the trust interim manager Michael Carrick places in him.
Martinez’s comeback coincides with a critical period for Manchester United as they aim to regain form and climb the Premier League standings. The resilient Argentine is expected to remain a key figure in the squad, particularly with the high-stakes Manchester derby against City looming at Old Trafford this Saturday.
Lessons from Adversity
Martinez’s story is more than just a tale of recovery—it’s an example of mental toughness and dedication. His experience underscores the challenges athletes face when dealing with serious injuries and the importance of support networks, professional guidance, and personal determination.
“I learned a lot about myself during this period,” Martinez reflected. “I rediscovered my identity, my values, and the determination to improve every day. That mindset has helped me come back stronger and more focused than ever.”
As Manchester United looks forward, Lisandro Martinez’s journey from the brink of early retirement to becoming a central figure underlines his value not only as a defender but as a leader on and off the pitch. His resilience serves as an inspiration to teammates and fans alike, illustrating that with perseverance, even the darkest moments can be transformed into triumph.
Looking Ahead
With Martinez back at peak fitness, Manchester United fans can expect a renewed defensive stability and leadership at the back. His experience and mental toughness are expected to be pivotal as the Red Devils pursue domestic and European success this season.
Carrick’s confidence in Martinez suggests the Argentine will continue to anchor the defense and potentially wear the captain’s armband in critical matches. For Martinez, every game is now a testament to his comeback, a reward for enduring months of pain and uncertainty, and proof that he can overcome adversity to reclaim his place among football’s elite.
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