Is Lisandro Martinez’s Manchester United Career Coming to an End?

Manchester United is approaching a critical game, but off-field discussions are taking center stage. Sir Jim Ratcliffe, INEOS chief, recently defended key decisions made under his new leadership and outlined future plans after a challenging decade for the club.

Ratcliffe’s vision is for Manchester United to win their 21st league title by 2028, a goal that seems ambitious given their current 14th position in the Premier League. While Ratcliffe didn’t directly blame previous management, he expressed frustration with expensive player signings inherited by his regime.

He mentioned Andre Onana, Rasmus Hojlund, Casemiro, Antony, and Jadon Sancho as costly signings made before INEOS took over, suggesting some current players are simply ‘not good enough’.

Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s Mentioned Players

Ratcliffe’s comments indicate that tough decisions are expected at Old Trafford, extending beyond just the high-profile players he named. While his honesty is noted, the impact on team confidence remains to be seen.

Sancho and Antony are currently on loan, with Sancho expected to leave permanently. Casemiro, a high earner, is also likely to be moved on. This raises questions about the futures of Onana and Hojlund.

Goalkeeper Onana has struggled recently, making errors, and public criticism from ownership might worsen his form. Striker Hojlund is on a long goal drought, raising concerns about his future as well.

Is Martinez’s Time at Man Utd Limited?

Despite manager Amorim stating that Europa League success wouldn’t salvage the season, there’s acceptance that adapting to the new 3-4-3 system takes time. Recent signings like Patrick Dorgu and young Ayden Heaven offer optimism.

Teenager Ayden Heaven has impressed in recent appearances. His manager praised his composure after a strong showing against Arsenal.

Heaven’s emergence could mean Lisandro Martinez’s time at Manchester United is limited. Martinez, signed in 2022 and initially praised, has faced recurring injuries, making him unreliable.

Martinez’s frequent injuries limited his appearances last season, and his form this season has been inconsistent. While he showed promise in early 2025, his current injury, expected to extend into next season, raises questions about his role in Amorim’s plans.

While Martinez is admired for his fighting spirit and ball-playing ability, defensive vulnerabilities have been noted. With Ratcliffe focused on value for money, Martinez, despite his popularity, might be considered for an exit.