Why Lisandro Martinez's ACL injury is a massive blow for Lionel Messi and Argentina?

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Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez has been ruled out for the remainder of the season following a severe knee injury.

The 27-year-old Argentine centre-back suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) during the latter stages of United's recent Premier League match against Crystal Palace.

The injury occurred during a challenge with Palace forward Ismaïla Sarr, leaving Martinez in visible distress, resulting his departure from the field on a stretcher.

This setback is particularly disheartening for Martinez, who had previously endured a significant knee injury in February 2024, sidelining him for eight weeks. His absence was keenly felt during United's recent 2-0 defeat to Crystal Palace, a result that has further complicated the club's season.

Manager Ruben Amorim expressed deep concern over Martinez's condition, emphasizing his indispensable role both on and off the pitch. And now it is confirmed that the Argentina international will be missing the rest of the season and beyond with the injury.

Man United sign two defenders on Transfer Window

Amid Lisandro Martinez's injury, Man United have roped in two defenders ahead of the closure of the January transfer window. The Premier League giants signed Lecce left-back Patrick Dorgu, while Arsenal teenager Ayden Heaven has also joined the club.

Why is Lisandro Martinez's injury a massive loss for Argentina?

Lisandro Martinez's long-term absence is a big blow for Man United, but it is a significant problem for Argentina as well. The centre-back has been an integral part of the Argentina squad in the last couple of years, and now him missing for a significant period puts Los Albicelestes in a precarious situation. Martinez has been a pivotal player for Argentina, playing crucial roles in their recent upsurge where Argentina won Copa America twice and the World Cup as well.

Although Argentina do have other centre-backs, Martinez was a key part of the squad. The defender is set to be sidelined for around seven to nine months, which means he will miss Argentina's next six World Cup 2026 qualification matches. Argentina will play Uruguay (away) and Brazil (home) in March, followed by four more qualifiers in June and September respectively. Martinez missing out on those matches can be a setback for the 2022 World Cup Champions, who set their eyes for a qualification in 2026.