Manchester United have suffered a massive setback right after the arrival of Ruben Amorim.
According to Argentinian journalist Gaston Edul, Lisandro Martinez has withdrawn from the national team due to a knock.
Martinez played through pain in United’s 3-0 win over Leicester City on Sunday. He was treated twice by the medical staff but showed great determination to finish the match.
The 26-year-old will miss Argentina’s World Cup qualifiers against Paraguay and Peru. He will focus on regaining his fitness over the next two weeks.
The £42 million-rated defender has slowly found his form after a dismal start to the season.
He has been solid in the heart of United’s defence and has had a vital role in playing out from the back.
He has made more interceptions (22) than any other player in the Premier League this season.
Martinez has also filled in at left-back due to the injuries of Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia.
Martinez is expected to play as the left-sided centre-back under Amorim, who prefers a back-three formation.
The Portuguese took over United on Monday after the departure of interim head coach Ruud van Nistelrooy.
He will make his managerial debut in the English top flight against recently promoted Ipswich Town on November 24.
He will be hoping that Martinez’s injury isn’t severe and that the defender will be available for the Ipswich game.
Jonny Evans is the only other naturally left-footed centre-back option in the squad.
United will need all their key players fit as they look to build momentum under their new head coach.
On the contrary, this setback to Martinez could turn into a blessing in disguise.
He could start working with Amorim earlier than a few players and impress with his intensity and skills.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com
