Lisandro Martinez, a Manchester United defender, has had an outstanding debut season in England.

Lisandro Martinez may want to consider purchasing a larger mantlepiece after Manchester United took a giant step toward the Carabao Cup final on Wednesday evening.

Only three days after scoring his first goal for United in the Reds’ 3-2 defeat to Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday, the Argentine was named Man of the Match at the end of the Reds’ 3-0 Carabao Cup semi-final first-leg victory over Nottingham Forest at the City Ground. It was an honor he fully deserved, as he grinned from ear to ear as he picked up the trophy at the end of his post-match interview with the rights holders.

Lisandro Martinez, the Manchester United center-back, has become a cult hero.

Martinez thrived in the heart of the defense, partnering Victor Lindelof, who had come into the starting lineup in place of Raphael Varane, who was given a rare breather. Despite wearing a bandage around his head, he put on another energetic and passionate performance.

Despite Marcus Rashford adding another goal to his tally, the Argentine was the Reds’ best performer on the Trent. He joined United from Ajax last summer for a fee of just under £57 million. He finished first in almost every statistical category, including clearing the most balls (four), winning the most tackles (five), completing the most passes (90), and having the most touches of the ball (119).

It was yet another strong and commanding performance from Manchester United’s newest cult hero, justifying manager Erik ten Hag’s decision to ignore the Reds’ recruitment team’s recommendation to pursue Villarreal’s Pau Torres during the summer window. The defender, who was mocked for his height, raising concerns that he would never make it in the Premier League, has made an indelible impression.

While Martinez was brought to Old Trafford primarily to add a left-footed presence to their pool of center-back options, he was also brought in for his attitude and application. The Argentine, who won four major trophies and the club’s Player of the Season award last season during his time at Ajax, wears his heart on his sleeve and gives his all every time he crosses the white line. That was demonstrated by his celebration against Arsenal.

He is a defender who, while not flying into challenges recklessly to rᎥsk a red card, will not give his opponent a moment’s peace. He makes his presence known, and any opposing striker leaves the field knowing they have been engaged in a bɑttle, just as he stated before joining the Reds.

“I’m known as the Canisero – the Butcher of Amsterdam,” Martinez said during his time at Ajax. “We Argentines do everything with passion – and when I go out on the pitch I fᎥght for every ball.

“If I have to step over deɑd bodies, I will. I want to win every 50-50 situation because I know I’m fᎥghting for food for all of my family and friends. That is the feeling that every Argentine has. It’s the kind of drive I can’t explain.”

Lisandro Martinez has had an outstanding first season in England.

His motivation and fᎥghting spirit, which have won him the hearts of Manchester United fans, make him an infectious figure within the team. He provided United with the energy and nastiness they desperately needed last season.

Although things have improved significantly this season as a result of Ten Hag’s new ideas and philosophy, United has been criticized in recent years for being ‘too soft’ and lacking leaders. Martinez, on the other hand, checks every box for what you could want in a leader and motivator, as evidenced by his willingness to stick his head where it hurts, be brave, and demonstrate an exemplary attitude.

That is why he should be considered a strong contender to become United’s next permanent captain.

Harry Maguire has barely played this season and his future at Old Trafford appears to be in doubt, which means Ten Hag could be tasked with appointing a new full-time captain next season. Bruno Fernandes has done well in Maguire’s absence, but Martinez’s qualities make him a strong candidate.

He sets a good example and brings the passion and energy that his fans have come to expect. With a World Cup winner’s medal, two Eredivisie winners medals, and a few others already in his possession, as well as the possibility of winning the Carabao Cup next month, he might just be able to find room in his collection for a captain’s armband.