(Credit: Imago)

Callum O'Connell

Tue 17 March 2026 13:30, UK

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Manchester United are concerned about Lisandro Martinez and his recent injury history as he edges towards a return to the starting XI.

The 28-year-old has missed 15 Premier League games through injury this season after recovering from a torn cruciate ligament, having made his first start in December.

A calf injury has kept him out since the 1-0 win against Everton last month, but could return for the visit to Bournemouth on 20 March.

However, former Man United chief scout Mick Brown told Football Insider that the club are concerned that he may have more long-term issues.

As a result, questions could be asked about his long-term future at the club, with Michael Carrick having coped fine without him as Man United plan for the transfer window.

Man United could allow Lisandro Martinez to leave

Brown previously told Football Insider that Martinez is a key player under Carrick and has benefited from the boss’ change in system and style.

However, if his recurring injury issues continue to halt his progress and keep him sidelined, questions may need to be asked about his role in the side.

“There are a few concerns about Martinez,” Brown told Football Insider.

“He had that serious injury last season, carried over into this season, and then he recovered and was part of the side for a while, but then he got injured again.

“This one has taken slightly longer to recover than they expected, it was supposed to be a couple of weeks, but he’s coming back to fitness again now.

“The thing is, after a serious injury like that, you do often get long-term issues.

“Man United and their medical team will be assessing him and deciding whether he is a high risk, because they don’t want somebody to be in and out of the side.

“If he comes back and plays five games and then misses the next five, it’s no good.

“So they have to make sure he is fit and ready to play consistently, and if not, then there might have to be some questions asked about his future.

“They need reliable players who they can count on every week, especially at the back, and if he can’t be one of those then they might have to look elsewhere.”

Man United plan defensive overhaul as exits expected

Martinez is not the only defender who could be on his way out of Old Trafford in the summer, as they plan to revamp the squad with replacements.

Harry Maguire’s contract situation remains up in the air, with no decision made on his future, while United are keen to strengthen across their back line.

Meanwhile, Brown told Football Insider on 15 March that Man United will accept offers for Tyrell Malacia in the summer as he is not part of their plans.

The 26-year-old made his first appearance under Carrick as a late substitute in their late 2-1 defeat to Newcastle United, and was at fault for the winning goal.

He was then named on the bench again for the clash with Aston Villa, although the manager has now lost faith in his ability to become a regular feature.