Manchester United’s Injury Crisis and New Signing Adds Pressure on Amorim
United’s Priority Left Wing-back Signing
During the January transfer window, Ruben Amorim made signing a natural left wing-back a top priority. The club successfully secured 20-year-old Ayden Heaven from Lecce in a deal worth £25 million. Heaven, a highly-rated talent, is expected to add a significant boost to United’s left flank after Amorim was forced to rely on makeshift solutions in that position earlier in the season.
The new signing provides Amorim with a proper option in the key left-wing-back role, which he has been looking to fill with a natural player capable of fitting into his tactical setup. With Heaven’s arrival, the United boss will be eager to integrate him into the starting lineup as soon as possible.
However, United has been hit with a fresh setback following the injury of Lisandro Martínez, which could significantly disrupt their plans.
Lisandro Martínez Injury – Potential Long-Term Absence
In the Sunday defeat to Crystal Palace, Lisandro Martínez was stretchered off the pitch after suffering a severe injury. Initial reports indicate the worst-case scenario: a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), which could sideline the Argentine defender for up to eight months. This would be a devastating blow for United as Martínez has been one of their most reliable defenders this season, playing a pivotal role in Amorim’s preferred three-at-the-back formation.
As a left-footed player, Martínez has been crucial in passing the ball through the lines, starting attacks from the back, and providing composure in defensive situations. Losing him for such an extended period will be a massive challenge for United, who are already dealing with a thin squad due to injuries.
Possible Replacements for Martínez
With Martínez potentially out for a significant portion of the season, Luke Shaw could step in to replace him. However, Shaw hasn’t started a match for almost a year, making him an uncertain option despite his previous experience in central defense. Jonny Evans remains absent, further complicating Amorim’s options.
One of the more intriguing solutions could be 18-year-old Ayden Heaven, who was signed in January with the intention of providing cover for Martínez. While Heaven is still young, Amorim may fast-track him into the starting XI due to the urgency of the situation.
Another potential option is 16-year-old Godwill Kukonki, a natural left-sided centre-back who has impressed since his arrival in November. The young defender could be considered by Amorim as a potential long-term solution, especially given his adaptability and natural fit for the role.
Striking Dilemma for Amorim
In addition to the defensive crisis, Amorim is also facing issues in attack. Rasmus Højlund and Joshua Zirkzee were both dropped from the starting XI against Palace, with Kobbie Mainoo being trialled in a false nine role. However, the experiment failed, and with neither striker finding the net in 2025, Amorim may look to further adjust his attacking options.
Possible Adjustments in Attack
If Højlund and Zirkzee continue to struggle for form, Amorim could look to bring in other options or experiment with Mainoo in a more central role. However, the lack of goals in attack could force United to make another move in the transfer market or shift their tactical approach to break their current scoring drought.
Conclusion
With Lisandro Martínez’s potential long-term absence and the pressure of integrating new signings like Ayden Heaven, Ruben Amorim will have to manage an increasingly challenging situation. The injury crisis combined with the inconsistency in attack could make this period a defining moment in United’s season, especially as they battle for key positions in the Premier League and Europe. Amorim‘s ability to adapt and make key tactical changes will be crucial in navigating these tough times.
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