Two Manchester United stars publicly volunteer to replace “wonderful” Lisandro Martínez in defence

Manchester United have lost Lisandro Martínez for the rest of the season through injury and Ruben Amorim needs to figure out the best replacement in his squad.

Manchester United’s 2-0 defeat to Crystal Palace on Sunday was a major setback for Ruben Amorim’s squad, but an even greater concern arose late in the match.

In the 82nd minute, Lisandro Martínez challenged Ismaïla Sarr for a 50-50 ball but landed awkwardly, twisting his knee unnaturally.

He remained on the ground in visible pain as medics rushed to assist. After a lengthy stoppage, he was stretchered off and replaced by Matthijs de Ligt.

A key presence in Amorim’s defence, Martínez had started 15 of United’s last 16 matches, contributing two goals and an assist in 2025.

Around 24 hours later, reliable Argentine journalist Gaston Edul confirmed he had suffered cruciate ligament damage, ruling him out for the rest of the season and possibly until midway through 2025/26.

Amorim must now find the best way to replace Martínez, who has been in “wonderful” form, with several options to consider.

Two United stars volunteer to replace Martínez

Barring the addition of left-footed defender Ayden Heaven, there are no natural left-sided centre-backs for the Reds in the first-team.

Harry Maguire used to play on that side but has become important as the central centre-back in Amorim’s system.

Meanwhile, two players have already volunteered to play in the position during Martínez’s absence, with one of those being Leny Yoro.

The teenager has played most of his minutes at right centre-back this season but has explained that he is more than comfortable playing on the opposite side.

“Of course, I’m right-footed so it’s more easy for me sometimes on the right but I really like to play on the left,” explained Yoro on Rio Ferdinand’s YouTube channel.

“Because when I come inside I can put a long-ball to the striker or [play into] the middle. It’s no problem for me.”

Meanwhile, Noussair Mazraoui has previously played in the position for Amorim and explained his willingness to play wherever he is needed on the pitch for United.

“How often will I be playing centre-back? That’s a question for Ruben [Amorim] I think,” Mazraoui said in an interview.

“Let me say, whenever the coach needs me, I play. I think in just three months here I’ve played already in four positions, so that says enough.”

Those two players will certainly be considered by Amorim, with the likes of Heaven, Luke Shaw and Matthijs de Ligt.

Make sure to follow UtdDistrict on X, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok to never miss out on any of our Manchester United content. Our podcast, What the Devil?, is released every Wednesday at 6 pm (BST) on the United View YouTube channel.