Erik ten Hag provides Lisandro Martinez update after World Cup win

Erik ten Hag has explained his plan in relation to Raphael Varane and Lisandro Martinez as the Premier League restarts.

Both Manchester United players made it to the World Cup final, which climaxed in a thrilling 3-3 draw between Argentina and France, with Lisandro Martinez‘s side besting the French side 4-2 on penalties.

While many fans were extatic to see Licha lift the famous trophy, they are itching even more to watch the now fan favourite return to action for the Red Devils.

Speaking in his press conference after the victory over Burnley on Wednesday evening, Erik ten Hag spoke about Martinez, Varane, and their expected timings to join back with the rest of the squad.

“I can’t answer that question now,” Ten Hag said when asked if Martinez will be back for the Nottingham Forest fixture.

“He is still celebrating now in Buenos Aires now, going around in the touring car! Going around in Buenos Aires and I can understand it, it is very emotional when you achieve this World Cup success in your country.”

He further detailed how excited he was for Martinez to win the World Cup, but jokingly hinted that he expects the centre-back to rejoin the squad soon.

“It is magnificent – it is the highest that you can achieve [in football],” he described. “Licha also has to understand that on December 27, the Premier League is back!”

In relation to his centre-back partner, Raphael Varane, Ten Hag expresses his sympathy for the Frenchman, saying he should be proud.

“He is disappointed, as anybody would be after losing the World Cup final,” he added.

“I think he can also be proud [to have played] again in the final, with all that he has achieved in his football career.”

When questioned on the availability of club captain Harry Maguire, the Dutch manager said he can’t confirm when the Englishman will be back.

“I can’t answer because Harry is sick,” Ten Hag revealed. “I don’t know how that develops. We have to wait. Maybe the coming hours, maybe the coming days, and then we will see if he is available for Forest.”

Finally, Ten Hag also confirmed that he does not know when Jadon Sancho will return to the squad as the winger continues his rehabilitation in the Netherlands.