Manchester United’s new head coach, Ruben Amorim, is set to make his managerial debut later this month, and he will be relieved to have Lisandro Martinez available for selection. The Argentine defender, who arrived at Old Trafford from Ajax in the summer of 2022, had been at risk of missing out due to a looming suspension, having collected four yellow cards in the Premier League already this season. According to league regulations, any player who accumulates five yellow cards within their team’s first 19 matches faces a mandatory one-game ban. However, with his disciplinary record still just under the threshold, Martinez will be cleared to start for Amorim’s debut clash against Ipswich Town on November 24.
Martinez’s most recent booking occurred during United’s tightly contested 1-1 draw against Chelsea, where he was cautioned for a late challenge on Chelsea’s rising star, Cole Palmer. The incident caught the eye of referee Robert Jones, who issued a yellow card, and although the incident was reviewed by VAR, the on-field decision stood. This marked Martinez’s fourth booking of the season, adding to earlier cautions in matches against Liverpool, Tottenham, and Crystal Palace, each highlighting his uncompromising and tenacious defensive style.
Martinez has become an essential component of United’s backline this season, solidifying his place as a starter in ten out of the eleven league fixtures so far. Despite the setbacks he faced with injuries last season, which limited him to just eleven league appearances, Martinez has already demonstrated his resilience and commitment to the squad, pushing himself to consistently feature in United’s lineup. His influence on the pitch has been invaluable, particularly in his ability to read the game, make vital tackles, and distribute the ball with his left foot, adding balance to United’s defensive line.
Amorim, known for his tactical adaptability and preference for a dynamic, possession-based game, is likely to introduce a 3-4-3 formation to his new team. In this setup, Martinez’s left-footed capabilities and composure with the ball are expected to make him a perfect fit on the left side of a back three. Positioned alongside experienced defenders like Matthijs de Ligt, Jonny Evans, and Victor Lindelof, Martinez’s role would involve not only defending but also contributing to the buildup from the back, ensuring fluid transitions from defense to attack.
United’s recent lineup decisions have been impacted by absences, with both Leny Yoro and Harry Maguire missing from action in recent matches. Their availability for the Ipswich game remains uncertain, but the inclusion of Martinez provides a boost in stability for Amorim as he prepares his squad. Martinez’s presence, combined with other experienced defenders, will give United a solid foundation as they aim to build momentum under their new manager.
Meanwhile, Kobbie Mainoo, United’s promising young midfielder, is also close to facing suspension, having received four yellow cards of his own. Mainoo’s next six games will be critical, as accumulating ten yellow cards within the first 32 league games would result in a two-game ban. Although these yellow cards won’t carry over to cup competitions like the Carabao Cup or FA Cup, Mainoo will need to be cautious in league matches to avoid potential absences that could hinder United’s midfie
ld depth.
