Manchester United have given the green light for Lisandro Martinez to join up with the Argentina national team during the international break, as the centre-back nears a long-awaited return from a serious knee injury.
The 26-year-old defender, who has been sidelined for months with an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury, is now entering the final stages of his rehabilitation. According to reports from Carrington, Martinez has been participating in full training sessions since late October, showing encouraging signs of progress and fitness stability.
While he is not yet ready to feature in competitive action for United, the club has approved his participation in non-competitive training with Argentina’s medical and fitness staff. The arrangement is designed to help Martinez continue his recovery in a familiar environment while ensuring he doesn’t rush his comeback.
The Long Road Back: Martinez’s Injury and Recovery Timeline
Lisandro Martinez suffered the ACL injury earlier in the year, a setback that came shortly after recovering from a separate metatarsal issue sustained during the 2023/24 campaign. The Argentine defender’s absence has been a major blow for United’s backline, which has struggled for defensive cohesion throughout the season.
The recovery process for ACL injuries is notoriously lengthy, often taking between six and nine months depending on the player’s physiology and response to treatment. Martinez’s return to light training in late September marked a key milestone, and his return to full training in October further raised hopes of a comeback before the end of the year.
Medical staff at Manchester United have taken a measured and cautious approach, avoiding any unnecessary risks of re-injury. Manager Erik ten Hag has repeatedly emphasised that the Argentine’s long-term health takes priority over short-term availability, particularly given the player’s importance to United’s defensive structure and leadership on the pitch.
Why United Approved Argentina Training Camp Participation
Manchester United’s decision to allow Martinez to train with Argentina is part of a carefully managed reintegration plan agreed upon by both the club’s medical team and the Argentine Football Association (AFA). The goal is to help Martinez regain match sharpness while continuing his recovery under professional supervision.
Reports indicate that the sessions will focus on conditioning, ball work, and tactical drills, with no risk of live match involvement. United have been reassured by Argentina’s medical department that Martinez’s workload will be closely monitored and adjusted daily to avoid any strain on his healing knee.
The arrangement also provides psychological benefits for the player. Returning to train alongside familiar faces such as Lionel Messi, Rodrigo De Paul, and Cristian Romero could provide a confidence boost as Martinez rebuilds his fitness. The Argentine national setup has a history of handling players returning from injury with care, and United believe this environment will support his final phase of rehabilitation.
Erik ten Hag’s Defensive Concerns Amid Injury Woes
While Martinez edges closer to full fitness, Erik ten Hag continues to navigate a challenging period marked by defensive injuries and inconsistent form. United’s defence has been heavily rotated this season due to multiple setbacks involving Raphaël Varane, Victor Lindelöf, and Harry Maguire.
The absence of Martinez, known for his aggressive defending and composure on the ball, has particularly impacted United’s ability to build from the back. His chemistry with Varane was a cornerstone of the club’s success last season, contributing significantly to their top-four finish and Carabao Cup triumph.
Ten Hag has publicly praised Martinez’s mentality and influence within the squad, describing him as “a warrior” and “a leader who brings calm and control.” The Dutchman is hopeful that once fully fit, the Argentine’s return will restore balance and authority to United’s defensive unit as they push for consistency in the second half of the season.
Argentina’s Perspective: Caution and Collaboration
From Argentina’s standpoint, Martinez’s inclusion in training is primarily about reintegrating him into the group dynamic rather than testing his physical limits. National team manager Lionel Scaloni views the decision as a step towards preparing Martinez for international fixtures in early 2025, including the Copa América campaign.
Scaloni and his medical staff have been in constant communication with their United counterparts, ensuring a unified approach to the player’s recovery plan. Argentina’s doctors have reportedly agreed to follow United’s protocols to the letter, understanding that a premature return could risk undoing months of progress.
The collaboration between the two camps underscores the strong relationship between Manchester United and the Argentine Football Association — a partnership built on mutual respect and professionalism. Both parties have a shared interest in ensuring that Martinez returns stronger, fitter, and fully ready for competitive action in the months ahead.
Looking Ahead: When Martinez Could Return for Manchester United
If his progress continues smoothly, Lisandro Martinez could make his long-awaited return to competitive football shortly after the international break. Sources suggest he could be in contention for selection by early December, potentially featuring in the Premier League clash against Everton or the mid-month fixture versus Aston Villa.
Manchester United’s medical team, however, are likely to assess his readiness on a week-by-week basis. They want to ensure that his knee has regained full stability and strength before exposing him to the demands of top-flight football.
For fans and teammates alike, Martinez’s return will be a major morale boost. His intensity, leadership, and passion have been sorely missed, and his presence could be pivotal as United aim to climb the Premier League table and advance in Europe.
As the international break begins, all eyes will be on Argentina’s training camp, where Lisandro Martinez continues his final steps toward full recovery. For both club and country, his return marks not just the comeback of a defender — but the restoration of a key leader and symbol of resilience.
