Manchester United have received a major fitness boost after Lisandro Martínez’s injury sustained in the World Cup final was confirmed to be only a muscle strain, with the Argentine defender expected to be fit in time for the start of the 2026/27 Premier League season.
Martínez was forced off before half-time during Argentina’s extra-time defeat to Spain, initially raising fears of a lengthy spell on the sidelines. However, medical assessments have ruled out any serious damage, and the defender is now expected to complete his recovery before United’s league opener under Michael Carrick.
The positive update has also influenced Manchester United’s transfer plans. Although the club has assessed several centre-back options this summer, the position is no longer considered a priority. With Harry Maguire, Leny Yoro, Ayden Heaven and Noussair Mazraoui available, United are instead focusing their recruitment on strengthening other areas of the squad, particularly midfield.
There is less encouraging news regarding Matthijs de Ligt, who is expected to remain sidelined until late September with a back injury. Even so, United remain confident they have enough defensive depth to begin the new campaign.
