After last season’s horror show, Erik ten Hag had decided that fixing the leaky defense was one of his first priorities as Manchester United’s new manager.
He quickly signed a new left-back in Tyrell Malacia and after some negotiations with former club Ajax, he convinced Lisandro Martinez to come and join him at Old Trafford.
Many pundits like Jamie Carragher were quick to point out the 5’9″ Argentinian’s height and how he would struggle to defend in the Premier League against physically powerful strikers.
Martinez’s tough start
And the start of his United career could hardly have been worse, as United suffered two successive defeats while at Brentford, he was replaced at half-time.
Ten Hag insisted that he believed the 24-year-old could cope with the English game and since bringing Raphael Varane to his side, the Argentina international’s game has gone from strength to strength.
In the five games he has started since then, United have kept three clean sheets, although they have only conceded two goals. His no-nonsense defending style has already earned him comparisons to United legend Nemanja Vidic.
Licha loves your support! ❤️
???? @LisandrMartinez#MUFC || #UEL
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) September 16, 2022
In addition to his defensive knowledge, his variety of passing has earned him rave reviews from all the fans who are already in love with ‘The Butcher’.
Pundits have since retracted his statements, and for Martinez, this is just the beginning. His camaraderie with his teammates has been on display along with his leadership qualities.
His performances have now earned him applause from Tottenham Hotspur defender Cristian Romero.
The Butcher sweeping applause
The Argentine star knows his compatriot well from his national team days and feels the United defender is one of the best in the business at the moment.
He singled out Martinez along with Liverpool star Virgil Van Dijk as the best defenders in the league.
“Today, the best defender for me is Virgil van Dijk, always, and Lisandro Martínez from Manchester United. For me, they are the best in the Premier League,” Sky Sports said.
High praise for someone who not so long ago was seen as the weak link in United’s back line.
Fans will pray that he returns to United without injury while on national duty.
With the Manchester Derby to follow, United will need both Martinez and Varane to be firing on all cylinders to keep the fit Erling Haaland quiet.
