Lisandro Martinez is back, and Argentina’s defense just got a lot more interesting. The Manchester United center-back has been confirmed in Argentina’s final 26-man squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, capping off a recovery from a 2025 ligament injury that could have derailed his international career.
The squad announcement came on May 28, 2026, setting up a title defense for the team that lifted the trophy in Qatar back in 2022. Martinez, who was an unused substitute in that iconic final against France, now appears poised for a much bigger role this time around.
From ligament injury to World Cup readiness
After suffering the injury in 2025, the defender worked his way back into regular playing time at Manchester United, re-establishing himself as a first-choice option at Old Trafford. The real proof of concept came in June 2026, when Martinez played 60 minutes against Honduras in a World Cup warm-up match.
Martinez’s international resume already speaks for itself. With 28 caps and 1 goal for Argentina, he’s been part of a golden era for the national team. Copa America titles in 2021 and 2024. The 2022 Finalissima. And, of course, the 2022 World Cup itself.
