Lisandro Martinez's injury against Crystal Palace exposes the vulnerabilities in Manchester United's defense. Despite recent improvements, the Argentine's absence leaves Ten Hag searching for solutions.
Lisandro Martinez 's injury against Crystal Palace throws a wrench into Manchester United 's nascent defensive stability. The Argentine defender had been a crucial component of Erik ten Hag's back three , playing a key role in their recent improvement. Martinez's departure, on a stretcher in the second half of the Sunday defeat, highlights the fragility of United's defensive structure.
While the three-man defense had shown promise, with Martinez's athleticism and aggression balancing the backline, other aspects of United's system remain problematic. The wing-back positions continue to lack consistency, and the midfield lacks a definitive solution. Despite Manuel Ugarte's impressive defensive contributions, he struggles with ball retention, leaving United vulnerable in build-up play.Ten Hag's options for replacing Martinez are limited. Leny Yoro and Matthijs de Ligt are the most likely candidates, but a back three consisting solely of right-footed center-backs presents challenges. It could force United into predictable passing patterns and exacerbate the already noticeable issues at the wing-back positions. The arrival of Patrick Dorgu for £25 million this window could offer a solution on the left flank, but the long-term absence of Martinez casts a shadow over United's defensive solidity
Manchester United Lisandro Martinez Injury Erik Ten Hag Defense Back Three
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