Manchester United’s new head coach, Ruben Amorim, has received a key advantage as he prepares for his debut match against Ipswich Town later this month. United’s central defender, Lisandro Martinez, narrowly avoided a one-game suspension and will be eligible to play in this important fixture. Martinez had been close to suspension after accumulating multiple yellow cards this season, but he’ll now be available for Amorim’s lineup.
Martinez, who joined United from Ajax in July 2022, was almost set to miss the Ipswich game under the Premier League’s rule of suspending players who collect five yellow cards within the first 19 games of the season. His latest yellow card, which came from a late tackle on Chelsea’s Cole Palmer in a 1-1 draw, marked his fourth booking so far. VAR reviewed the incident, but the initial yellow card decision remained. Prior to this, Martinez had already been cautioned in games against Liverpool, Tottenham, and Crystal Palace.
As one of United’s most consistent defenders, Martinez has played in 10 of their 11 league games this season, coming close to matching his appearances from last season, which was cut short by injuries. Under Amorim’s expected 3-4-3 system, Martinez is likely to fill the left-sided role in a three-man defense, utilizing his left foot and strong passing abilities to support the team’s play from the back.
Martinez’s availability is particularly crucial given United’s limited options in defense, with Leny Yoro and Harry Maguire potentially unavailable for the November 24 fixture. In addition to Martinez, defenders Matthijs de Ligt, Jonny Evans, and Victor Lindelof are expected to be important members of Amorim’s defensive setup, strengthening United’s back line in this transitional period.
Meanwhile, United’s midfield faces similar concerns about suspensions. Kobbie Mainoo, another essential player, is also close to suspension, with four yellow cards accumulated.
If he receives another caution soon, he will approach the league’s 10-yellow card threshold, which results in a two-game suspension. It’s worth noting that yellow cards received in Premier League matches don’t carry over to competitions like the Carabao Cup or FA Cup.
Amorim’s focus will be on refining his squad and implementing his vision for the team. Martinez’s confirmed availability comes as a significant boost, providing stability to a defensive unit that will be central to United’s hopes for a consistent performance under new management. With this newfound defensive advantage, Amorim will be aiming for a positive start, as he leads United into a new chapter and seeks to inspire the club toward achieving their ambitions.
