Biography
Who is Lisandro Martínez?
Early life and career beginnings
Lisandro Martínez was born in Gualeguay, Argentina, on January 18, 1998. Growing up in the Entre Rios Province, he spent his youth football years with local clubs including Club Urquiza and Club Libertad before joining Newell's Old Boys. He made his professional debut for Newell's during the final fixture of the 2016 to 2017 season against Godoy Cruz.
Seeking regular first-team opportunities, Lisandro joined Defensa y Justicia on loan in August 2017. He scored his first senior goal during an away win against Temperley. His solid performances convinced the Argentine club to purchase fifty percent of his economic rights in June 2018, establishing him as a promising young defender in the domestic league.
Success with Ajax
During his three seasons in Amsterdam, Lisandro made 120 appearances across all competitions. He helped the Dutch team secure two Eredivisie titles and one KNVB Cup. In recognition of his standout performances on the pitch, he was voted the Ajax Player of the Year for the 2021 to 2022 season before moving to the English Premier League.
Manchester United career
In July 2022, Manchester United announced the signing of Lisandro on a five-year contract for a reported transfer fee ranging between forty-seven and forty-nine million pounds, plus add-ons. He made his club debut in August against Brighton and Hove Albion and quickly won the Manchester United Player of the Month award for August after strong displays against rival teams.
Despite suffering several injuries, including a fractured metatarsal and ligament issues that sidelined him for extended periods, Lisandro contributed to major domestic success. He helped the club win the 2023 EFL Cup final against Newcastle United and later featured in the victorious 2024 FA Cup final against Manchester City.
International achievements
Lisandro represented Argentina at the youth level, playing in the South American Youth Football Championship and participating in the under-twenty and under-twenty-three squads. He made his senior international debut for the Argentina national team in March 2019 in a match against Venezuela played in Madrid.
As a key member of the senior squad, Lisandro achieved strong success on the international stage. He was part of the Argentine squads that won the 2021 Copa América, the 2022 Finalissima, the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, and the 2024 Copa América. He also scored his first international goal during the 2024 tournament in a quarter-final match against Ecuador.
Height and playing style
Standing at 175 centimeters tall, Lisandro is known for having a relatively short stature for a central defender. However, his aggressive defending, physical duels, and ability to read the game successfully compensate for his height. Analysts and former players have compared his tenacious style of play to former Manchester United defender Nemanja Vidic.
Beyond his primary position as a centre-back, Lisandro is also capable of playing as a left-back and as a defensive midfielder. His composure on the ball and exceptional range of long passes have made him a crucial ball-playing defender for both his club teams and the national team.
Birthday and age
Lisandro Martínez was born on January 18, 1998, which makes Lisandro 28 years old today. That birthday falls under the Capricorn sign. Lisandro shares the date with 47 other famous people.
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