Michael Carrick’s Concern Over Lisandro Martínez’s Recent Injury
The Manchester United manager addressed the Argentine defender’s physical setback ahead of the clash against Everton.
Manchester United’s hard-fought victory at Goodison Park came with a side of anxiety for the "Red Devils" faithful. While the headlines belonged to Benjamin Sesko’s match-winner, the absence of Lisandro Martínez from the matchday squad sent shockwaves through social media.
As the club continues its unbeaten run under Michael Carrick, the focus has shifted from the pitch to the medical room. Here is everything we know about the "Butcher’s" latest setback.
Precaution Over Panic: The Calf Concern
Before kick-off, Michael Carrick was quick to address the elephant in the room. Martínez reportedly felt discomfort in his calf during a training session leading up to the Everton clash. Given the Argentine’s grueling injury history over the last 18 months, the coaching staff opted for total caution.
"We decided not to risk him," Carrick explained. The goal is simple: avoid a relapse at all costs. Martínez has been the heartbeat of the defense since returning in November from a devastating ACL rupture that kept him sidelined for most of 2025.
The Recovery Timeline
Initial medical reports suggest that Martínez will be out of action for approximately two weeks.
- The Impact: This makes him a major doubt for the upcoming Premier League fixture against Crystal Palace.
- The History: The medical team is being hyper-vigilant. In addition to the ACL recovery, Martínez also underwent surgery for a metatarsal fracture in 2023. At this stage of the 2026 season, United cannot afford to lose their defensive leader for a long-term period due to a rushed return.
Yoro and Maguire: Stepping Up in the Storm
In Lisandro's absence, Carrick turned to the youth-and-experience duo of Leny Yoro and Harry Maguire. The gamble paid off handsomely.
- The Result: United secured a rare away clean sheet, their first in several months of Premier League play.
- The Performance: While Yoro provided the recovery speed, Maguire handled the aerial bombardment from the Toffees. However, while the clean sheet is a morale booster, the squad knows that Martínez’s elite ball progression and "warrior" mentality are impossible to fully replicate.
A Crowded Treatment Room
Martínez joins a list of high-profile names currently unavailable for selection. Matthijs de Ligt is still battling back issues, while Mason Mount and Patrick Dorgu remain sidelined.
(A quick note for the fans: While some reports have mentioned Eric ten Hag in relation to recent lineups, let's keep it grounded—the Carrick era is in full swing at Old Trafford, and the tactical identity of the team has shifted significantly toward this new leadership.)
The Bottom Line
Manchester United is firmly in the race for a Champions League spot, but their success depends heavily on the fitness of their "untouchables." Carrick’s message is clear: the priority is a 100% healthy Lisandro Martínez, even if it means dropping points in the short term. For now, the depth of the squad—and the form of Leny Yoro—will be the ultimate test of United’s resilience.
