Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez has spoken out against criticism directed at Argentina after their FIFA World Cup campaign. He stated there is no “real reason” for negative sentiment towards the national team.
Argentina experienced a defeat in the final against Spain, with Ferran Torres scoring the sole goal in extra time. This result secured Spain’s second World Cup title. The tournament saw Argentina face accusations of aggressive play and debate surrounding player conduct, including incidents during the final and celebrations.
Martinez Rejects Criticism
Martinez described the criticism as an unjustified campaign against Argentina. He told Foot Mercato that he is “a little annoyed” because, in his view, there is no real basis for the animosity. He dismissed claims of arrogance, suggesting such comments reflect more on the critics than on the team. Martinez maintained that Argentina has always shown respect towards their opponents.
Controversy also surrounded a FIFA probe into a Falklands/Malvinas banner displayed during Argentina’s semi-final celebrations. Following the final defeat, Martinez posted on social media that “the fall of the great is the happiness of the mediocre,” which generated further discussion. Despite the ongoing criticism, the defender affirmed that Argentina’s players believe they have consistently respected their opponents, arguing that the controversy has unfairly influenced perceptions of the team.
Argentina’s 2026 World Cup campaign was characterized by strong performances alongside controversy. The team faced scrutiny for its aggressive style and the behavior of some players. The debate intensified after their extra-time loss to Spain in the final, and further attention was drawn to Argentina’s conduct when they turned away from Spain during the trophy presentation.
Injury Concerns for Manchester United
Martinez’s participation in the World Cup final was cut short due to an injury, raising concerns for Manchester United. He sustained a thigh issue, which is different from previous setbacks in his career with the Red Devils. The center-back has previously missed significant time due to foot, knee, and calf injuries. His first season at Old Trafford was impacted by a fractured metatarsal, and various ailments led him to miss 41 games during the 2023–24 campaign. He also missed an extended period due to a torn ACL, which prompted considerations of early retirement. Muscular issues have affected his recovery post-ACL, but this recent hamstring issue is not believed to be serious.
Manchester United is optimistic that Martinez will be fit for the start of the 2026–27 Premier League season. The club has not yet added a defensive player in the summer transfer window, with Michael Carrick reportedly trusting his current squad. Carrick also hopes to have Matthijs de Ligt available soon, though De Ligt’s return to full fitness is still some way off.
De Ligt has been recovering from a back injury. His last appearance for Manchester United was in a match against Crystal Palace on November 30, 2025. Updates on De Ligt’s fitness have been limited during his prolonged absence, which has meant he has missed Carrick’s entire tenure as manager. In May, United announced that De Ligt had undergone a “corrective procedure” intended to facilitate his return at the beginning of the 2026–27 season. However, his recovery has been further delayed, with a return now targeted for the autumn.
Source: si.com
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As News-GB's Sports Reporter, Megan Sinclair reports on tennis, cricket and athletics for readers across the country. She built her name interviewing rising British talent. She holds a degree in Sport and Media from the University of Edinburgh and completed an NCTJ diploma. Megan lives in Edinburgh, where she plays club tennis and follows track athletics. “Give the athletes room and the story tells itself.”