Lisandro Martínez, Manchester United’s Argentine centre‑back, nearly quit football after a torn ACL forced a nine‑month rehab in 2025. The injury sidelined him from Premier League action, but his determination saw him return to the starting lineup in November 2025, restoring United’s defense and sparking discussions about his future impact.
The ACL Injury That Changed Martínez’s Career
Date and Incident
On 14 February 2025, during a Premier League clash with Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park, Martínez collapsed after a challenge inside the box. Scans confirmed a complete rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee, an injury that typically requires surgery and an extensive recovery period.
Immediate Medical Response
United’s medical team acted quickly, scheduling reconstructive surgery within days. The club initially projected an 8–10 month recovery, a timeline that later proved optimistic as the rehabilitation process extended to nine months.
Rehab Journey and Mental Challenge
Physical Recovery
The nine‑month programme involved daily physiotherapy, strength training, and gradual re‑integration of football‑specific drills. Martínez adhered to a strict regimen that focused on restoring knee stability, range of motion, and match‑fitness.
Mental Struggle
Beyond the physical demands, Martínez faced periods of doubt. He admitted that the isolation of rehab and the fear of never playing again led him to seriously consider ending his professional career. Overcoming these thoughts required support from the club’s staff and a renewed personal resolve.
Return to the Pitch: Impact on United’s Defense
First Competitive Appearance
Martínez made his comeback on 19 November 2025, entering as a substitute in a 2‑1 victory over Newcastle United. Since that debut, he has started ten Premier League matches, confirming his full fitness to the coaching staff.
Performance Highlights
In a recent 3‑0 home win against Everton, Martínez delivered a commanding defensive display, recording three key interceptions and winning a penalty that opened the scoring. His aggressive ball‑winning style, combined with sharper positional awareness, signals a more complete defender.
What Martínez’s Comeback Means for Manchester United
- Defensive stability: His return restores a vital component of Erik ten Hag’s backline, offering balance and the ability to play out from defence.
- Leadership and morale: Openly sharing his mental battle sets a precedent for a supportive squad culture, especially for younger players coping with injuries.
- Transfer market outlook: A fit Martínez reduces speculation about his departure and allows United to focus on strengthening the defensive unit around him.
- International prospects: With the Copa América approaching in June 2026, Martínez’s form positions him as a strong candidate for Lionel Scaloni’s Argentina squad.
Key Takeaways: Resilience and Future Outlook
Martínez’s journey illustrates how elite medical care, disciplined rehabilitation, and mental fortitude can revive a career threatened by a serious ACL injury. As the Premier League season advances, United fans will monitor his performances not only for defensive solidity but also as a testament to perseverance in the face of adversity.