Manchester United edged past Everton in a hard-fought victory in Match week 27. But before the game, Michael Carrick shared bad news about Lisandro Martinez. The key defender missed the match after picking up an injury in training. The squad is pushing hard for a top-four finish, so his absence is a big blow.
Michael Carrick provides update on Lisandro Martinez and his sudden injury
As per reports, the Argentine defender suffered a sudden injury setback just before a recent match against Everton on Tuesday. Michael Carrick broke the news in a pre-match interview at the Hill Dickinson Stadium. The head coach talked about the issue but sounded displeased about the timing. He stated: “Unfortunately he just picked up something during the week. It doesn’t seem too bad at all, but we’re just kind of working through that at the moment”.
Reports suggest the player is nursing a minor calf problem. The Argentine is expected to need a recovery period of approximately one to two weeks. However, there is hope he could be back for the match against Crystal Palace on 1st March. If not, the subsequent trip to Newcastle on 5th March could be his comeback. At the moment, his place in the team for the Finalissima against Spain in late March is not at risk.
⚓🏴Manchester United boss Michael Carrick has clarified Lisandro Martínez’s fitness after his surprise absence vs Everton.
United still secured a 1-0 win, but fans were left concerned over the Argentine defender’s omission.[image: getty images ] pic.twitter.com/AsxZKBpjsf
— kaivryn⚓ (@kaivryn) February 24, 2026
Impact of the absence on the squad
The absence of Lisandro Martinez is a big blow for the tactical setup of Manchester United. He has been a key player of the team since Carrick took over, starting every game under the new manager before this injury. The partnership between the Argentine and Harry Maguire had become the backbone of the defence. Moreover, this duo played a major role in wins over Manchester City and Arsenal.
Martinez is hard to replace. He is considered one of the best ball-playing defenders in the Premier League. He provides crucial vertical passes that drive the team forward through opposition lines.
With him out, 18-year-old Leny Yoro received a chance to start. It was his 13th game of the season. The young Frenchman delivered a performance full of maturity and composure next to Maguire. Carrick managed the game effectively by trusting his squad depth to maintain defensive stability. Sesko scored the only goal in the 72nd minute, giving United a 1-0 win over Everton.
A season full of fitness struggles for Lisandro Martinez
The current layoff adds to a difficult season for Martinez as he keeps struggling to stay fit. He only returned to the side in November after recovering from a serious nine-month ACL injury.
The Red Devils have won only seven of eighteen matches without him in the starting lineup this term. However, they have secured five wins in the nine games he has started since his return. This contrast shows how much the team needs him fit and available. The history of setbacks is concerning, as he has missed 99 games in total since joining the club.
Meanwhile, the treatment room remains crowded with other key players. Matthijs de Ligt is dealing with a persistent back problem, while Mason Mount and Patrick Dorgu are out too. Such injuries are detrimental as the club fights for domestic glory in English football.
What’s next for the Red Devils
In conclusion, the minor calf injury to Lisandro Martinez presents a temporary hurdle for Manchester United. Michael Carrick remains hopeful he will return soon, possibly within a week. The new manager has certainly transformed the team. Fans are now eager to see the Red Devils gain back their lost glory. Squad fitness will be crucial as the club aims for a top-four finish and continues its rise under new leadership.
As featured on ManUNews.com
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