Manchester United star Lisandro Martinez has avoided a serious injury scare, dealing a welcome boost to Lionel Messi and Argentina
Martinez, who featured in Argentina's 2022 World Cup triumph, was feared to have suffered an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury when he limped off in the second half of United's 3-0 victory over West Ham on Sunday. The defender tangled with Vladimir Coufal when trying to usher the ball out of play. However, United have confirmed the 26-year-old has escaped the worst-case scenario.
The centre-back is expected to be out for eight weeks with a sprained medial collateral ligament in his right knee. This is a significant setback for United, but no surgery is required. Martinez should return to action soon after the March international break, when his availability will be crucial as Erik Ten Hag's team fights for Champions League qualification.
The prognosis means Martinez is set to be available for the Copa America this summer, to be held across the United States. If his injury had been more serious, such as the ACL rupture that fans were fearing, he would've been unavailable.
Inter Miami star Messi, aged 36, may be appearing for the last time at an international tournament this summer and is sure to be pleased with the news. After Argentina's win against Brazil in the 2021 Copa America final, Messi revealed his joy, calling the victory a "dream". He wants to repeat the feat this summer.
Former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain superstar Messi shared his happiness after the 2021 final. "I have peace of mind of having achieved the dream that has been denied to me so many times," Messi told ESPN. "It was like a dream, a spectacular moment.
"I couldn't believe it had happened. I enjoy watching the images now more than at the time as I was in a daze. I didn't quite understand what was happening. Everything I won was important and beautiful, but this was the most difficult because I went through many things... it was knock after knock.
"I finally had happy holidays from the first day to the last. Before I was bitter and now it was different from start to finish. My children sing Argentina songs all the time, they remember the final against Brazil, and for me it's spectacular to see how they enjoy that."
United's statement on Martinez's injury read: "We all wish Licha a speedy recovery and look forward to seeing him back on the pitch later in the season."
The new MLS season starts later this month, with Miami starting their campaign at home to Real Salt Lake on February 21.