Manchester United are finally set to receive a major defensive boost, with Lisandro Martínez due to rejoin full first-team training at Carrington this week after more than eight months out.
According to The Daily Mail, the Argentina international has made strong progress in his recovery from a torn anterior cruciate ligament suffered during a 2-0 defeat to Crystal Palace in February.
The 27-year-old was stretchered off in tears that afternoon and later underwent knee surgery in London, with initial fears that he could miss the entire 2025 calendar year. His return ahead of schedule will come as a significant lift for manager Ruben Amorim, whose side face Liverpool next weekend before hosting Brighton on 25 October.
Martínez’s comeback would mark the end of another frustrating chapter in a United career frequently interrupted by injuries. Since joining from Ajax in 2022, the World Cup winner has endured a series of setbacks but remains a crucial presence in Amorim’s defensive system.
Lisandro Martínez return timeline and United’s injury picture
Martínez has spent the past month building fitness through individual drills and light ball work, before being cleared to resume full contact sessions. The expectation, per club sources, is that he could feature either against Brighton (25 October) or Nottingham Forest (1 November).
United’s only other significant absentee is Noussair Mazraoui, who has been sidelined with a minor muscle issue but is also close to a return after the international break. The pair’s imminent availability would hand Amorim something he’s yet to enjoy since arriving at Old Trafford — a fully fit defensive line.
“We miss Licha a lot, especially in this moment. We miss his aggression in everything he does, we miss him. But he’s always there in every meeting. We need Licha in this team.” — Ruben Amorim on Lisandro Martínez
Martínez’s 2024/25 season snapshot
| Stat (2024/25) | Lisandro Martínez |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 11 |
| Tackles per game | 2.4 |
| Pass Accuracy | 89 % |
| Clearances per game | 3.1 |
source: sofascore match data – 13 October 2025
Martínez’s composure in possession and leadership at the back have been sorely missed. United’s defensive record has worsened noticeably without him, conceding 1.8 goals per game compared to 1.1 when he starts.
Analyst Verdict — John William, FootballPlace
In my view, Martínez’s return could be the spark United need to regain structure and belief under Amorim. His aggressive pressing and left-footed distribution are fundamental to building from the back — something United have struggled with this season.
We believe his leadership and mentality could also help settle an unsettled dressing room. If Amorim manages his reintegration carefully, Martínez might not only stabilise the defence but redefine United’s approach in and out of possession.
Key Insights
- Lisandro Martínez to rejoin full training this week after ACL recovery.
- Aiming to feature against Brighton (25 Oct) or Nottingham Forest (1 Nov).
- Amorim praises Martínez’s influence and mentality during recovery.
- Noussair Mazraoui also nearing return post-international break.
- United preparing for a crucial clash with Liverpool this weekend.
What’s Next for Manchester United
United visit Liverpool on Sunday 19 October before back-to-back home fixtures against Brighton and Lyon. Martínez’s readiness for selection will depend on how he responds to full-contact sessions over the coming days.
With Amorim finally close to having a full defensive unit, the upcoming weeks could prove pivotal in stabilising United’s inconsistent start to the season.
👉 How big of an impact will Lisandro Martínez’s return have on United’s defence?
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