Lisandro Martinez Speaks Out on Argentina World Cup Criticism and Injury Status
Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez has spoken out against criticism directed at Argentina following their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign. Martinez stated there is “no real reason” for animosity towards the national team, describing the criticism as an unjustified campaign.
Argentina was defeated by Spain in the final, with Ferran Torres scoring the only goal in extra time. This result secured La Roja their second World Cup title. The match saw Argentina reduced to 10 men after Enzo Fernández received a second yellow card before extra time.
Martinez, along with fellow centre-back Cristian Romero, sustained injuries during the final. Despite the loss, Martinez was later named in FIFA’s Dream XI, acknowledging his individual performance throughout the tournament.
Argentina’s World Cup Conduct Under Scrutiny
The Argentina team faced accusations from some observers regarding their conduct during the tournament, including claims of aggressive play. Incidents surrounding the final and the team’s celebrations also fueled debate about player behaviour.
Martinez, however, maintained that the team has always been respectful towards opponents. He commented, “They say we are arrogant, but that says more about them than about us. We have always been very respectful towards every opponent we have faced.”
Further controversy arose during Argentina’s World Cup campaign, including a FIFA probe into a Falklands/Malvinas banner displayed during the team’s semi-final celebrations. Following the final defeat, Martinez posted on social media, “the fall of the great is the happiness of the mediocre,” which also generated reaction.
Despite the scrutiny, the Manchester United player asserted that Argentina’s players believe they consistently respected their opponents, suggesting that the controversy has unfairly influenced perceptions of the team. The team’s decision to turn away from Spain during the trophy presentation further intensified discussions about their behaviour.
Martinez’s Injury Status
Martinez’s withdrawal from the World Cup final due to injury raised concerns for Manchester United. The defender is reportedly dealing with a thigh issue, which is different from previous setbacks he has experienced.
Since joining Manchester United, Martinez has missed significant periods due to foot, knee, and calf injuries. His first campaign at Old Trafford was shortened by a fractured metatarsal, and various ailments led him to miss 41 games during the 2023–24 season. He also missed more than nine months of 2025 with a torn ACL.
Muscular issues have affected Martinez’s recovery post-ACL, but his latest hamstring issue is not believed to be serious. Manchester United is optimistic that Martinez will be fit for the opening weekend of the 2026–27 Premier League season, when the team is scheduled to visit Hull City on August 22.
The club has not yet made a defensive signing in the summer transfer window, with Michael Carrick reportedly planning to rely on his current squad. The team also hopes to have Matthijs de Ligt available soon.
De Ligt last played for Manchester United on November 30, 2025. In May, United stated that De Ligt had undergone a “corrective procedure” with the aim of returning at the start of the 2026–27 season, but his recovery has been delayed.
Source: si.com
Amelia Stockwell is a Sports Reporter at News GB. She covered two Commonwealth Games for a national outlet. She focuses on tennis, cricket and athletics and is known for clear, deadline-driven reporting. She holds a degree in Sport and Media from the University of York and completed an NCTJ diploma. Now based in York, she runs with a local club and follows county cricket. “The quiet stories often matter most by the end of the season.”
