After Argentina’s victory over France, Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez will return to Old Trafford as a World Cup winner.

Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez displayed poise as he consoled teammate Raphael Varane following Argentina’s World Cup victory over France in the final on Sunday.

Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe shone on the world’s biggest stage, putting on a show for what was arguably the most exciting final in recent memory. After 120 minutes of tҺrilling football, neither country could be separated, and a tҺrilling 3-3 draw resulted in the South American side winning the tournament on penalties.

On Sunday, one Manchester United player was set to suffer heartbreak when Varane and Martinez collided. Didier Deschamps named the French center-back to his starting lineup, while Lionel Scaloni named the Argentine to the bench.

Despite being opponents on the day, the bond the pair had formed under Erik ten Hag was evident as the final whistle blew. The contrast in emotions between the French and the Argentinians was obvious, with the highs and lows of football displayed in stark contrast.

Martinez had every right to join in on his teammates’ celebrations and party the night away, but the 24-year-old displayed wisdom beyond his years amid the jubilant scenes of his country’s historic victory.

The United player approached Varane to console him, and the two shared a warm embrace. The former Ajax defender was seen reassuring and comforting the former Real Madrid man as Martinez made sure to check on him in the aftermath of the final – before shaking hands with his international teammate Antoine Griezmann.

Ten Hag would have been overjoyed to see his preferred defensive unit make such an excellent connection. In order to compete for a Champions League spot in the second half of the season, the Dutchman will need both Martinez and Varane to be fully fit when they return to Old Trafford.

United return to competitive action following the World Cup with a Carabao Cup match against Burnley on December 21, followed by a Premier League match against Nottingham Forest at Old Trafford on December 27.

Following an exhausting month of action in the Middle East, Varane and Martinez will be given time to rest and recover, but fans will be delighted to see the duo’s bond strengthening after Sunday’s final, as they look forward to seeing the pair in United red again in the near future.

Manchester United should sign a dynamic player, Ten Hag admired Mohammed Kudus’s skill in January.

When the transfer window reopens next month, Manchester United should consider signing Ajax star Mohammed Kudus.

Following Cristiano Ronaldo’s free transfer, the Red Devils are looking for a quality center-forward in January.

Cody Gakpo of PSV Eindhoven has been identified as the leading target, but the Dutchman is primarily a left winger by trade.

With a price tag of around £65 million, the hierarchy may consider alternatives, and Kudus, in our opinion, could be a viable option.

According to The Athletic, manager Erik ten Hag admires the Ghanaian star’s “skill and dynamism” and is open to a reunion.

In January, Manchester United should sign dynamic Kudus.

Kudus spent two seasons at Ajax under Ten Hag, but he did not make an impression due to frequent injuries and competition for positions.

He has, however, managed to redeem himself this term. In 21 games for Ajax, the 22-year-old has scored 12 goals and assisted on another 12.

He also performed admirably for Ghana at the World Cup in Qatar, scoring two goals in a tҺrilling 3-3 draw with South Korea in the group stage.

Kudus’ versatility would make him an excellent signing for United. He has played as a striker or an attacking midfielder for Ajax this season.

He can also play at the number eight position or on the right wing. Ten Hag’s desire for a reunion comes as no sᴜrprise.

Ajax’s stance could be a major impediment. Last summer, Everton came close to signing Kudus for £15 million plus add-ons, but Ajax blocked his departure.

He is now said to be worth around £30-35 million. Knowing Ajax’s tenacity in negotiating, they could easily push the price up to £50 million.

After signing Lisandro Martinez and Antony from Ajax last summer, United should be aware of this. It won’t be easy to get rid of Kudus next month.