Manchester United’s new head coach, Ruben Amorim, is set to make his managerial debut later this month and will be relieved to have Lisandro Martinez available for selection. The Argentine defender, who joined from Ajax in the summer of 2022, was at risk of suspension due to having accumulated four yellow cards in the Premier League this season. League rules stipulate that a player who receives five yellow cards within the first 19 matches faces an automatic one-match ban. However, with Martinez just below the threshold, he will be eligible to play in Amorim’s first match in charge against Ipswich Town on November 24.
Martinez’s most recent booking came in United’s 1-1 draw with Chelsea, where he was yellow-carded for a late challenge on Cole Palmer. The decision was reviewed by VAR but upheld by referee Robert Jones. This was Martinez’s fourth booking, adding to earlier cautions in matches against Liverpool, Tottenham, and Crystal Palace, all of which reflect his aggressive and no-nonsense defensive approach.
Martinez has become a key figure in United’s defense this season, starting in ten of the eleven league matches so far. Despite injury troubles that limited him to just eleven league appearances last season, he has shown resilience and a strong commitment to the team, consistently featuring in the lineup. His leadership on the pitch has been invaluable, with his ability to read the game, make crucial tackles, and distribute the ball with his left foot, providing balance to United’s defense.
Amorim, known for his tactical flexibility and emphasis on a possession-based style, is likely to implement a 3-4-3 formation at United. In this system, Martinez’s left-footed technique and composure on the ball will make him a natural fit on the left side of a back three. Alongside experienced defenders like Matthijs de Ligt, Jonny Evans, and Victor Lindelof, Martinez will not only focus on defensive duties but also contribute to building play from the back, ensuring smooth transitions from defense to attack.
Recent team selections have been affected by absences, with both Leny Yoro and Harry Maguire sidelined in recent games. Their status for the Ipswich match remains unclear, but Martinez’s availability offers a stabilizing presence for Amorim as he prepares his squad. Along with other experienced defenders, Martinez will provide a solid foundation for United as they look to build momentum under their new manager.
Meanwhile, Kobbie Mainoo, United’s young midfielder, is also close to suspension, having earned four yellow cards. His next six league games are critical, as ten yellow cards within the first 32 matches would result in a two-match ban. While yellow cards don’t carry over into cup competitions like the Carabao Cup or FA Cup, Mainoo will need to be careful in league matches to avoid suspensions that could impact United’s midfield.
