Manchester United's Lisandro Martinez worries continue after Argentina decision

Lisandro Martinez was not included in Argentina’s matchday squad for their 2026 World Cup qualifier against Bolivia on Tuesday after also sitting out the previous match with Ecuador.

The defender has not played since coming off with a foot injury in the second half of Manchester United’s 3-1 loss to Arsenal, although he did take part in training while away with his national team.

It leaves his availability for United in doubt with matches against Brighton and Bayern Munich scheduled in the coming days. Raphael Varane is still injured but Victor Lindelof led Sweden in both of their Euro 2024 qualifiers after recovering from the sickness that forced him off against Arsenal.

England’s Harry Maguire and Jonny Evans of Northern Ireland came through the international break without concern. Luke Shaw, another potential centre-half option, is currently sidelined.

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Martinez shared an Instagram post on Monday which showed him walking out for Argentina training with the caption “ready for what’s coming”. Earlier this week, head coach Lionel Scaloni hinted that the defender did not have a significant issue.

"Licha, as you know, had an issue with his feet,” he said. “In their last game [Arsenal vs Manchester United], he was in pain and went out [was subbed] for precaution. They have done studies and he's well."

Scaloni decided not to risk him again in the 3-0 win over Bolivia, though, meaning he has left Martinez out of the squad for both of Argentina’s internationals this break. Alejandro Garnacho came on as a late substitute in the final five minutes against Bolivia for his third cap having failed to get off the bench against Ecuador.

United face Brighton in the Premier