### Lisandro Martinez Reflects on a Challenging Season and Looks Forward to Copa America
Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez has given an honest assessment of his injury-ridden season, during which he missed 40 games and played only 14 times due to three separate setbacks. Despite the challenges, Martinez is optimistic as he prepares for Argentina’s Copa America campaign this summer.
#### A Season of Setbacks
Martinez’s season was marred by a series of injuries that significantly limited his appearances. Reflecting on the difficult period, he expressed that while the setbacks were tough, they provided valuable learning experiences. “I’ve learned a lot from my injuries,” he said, emphasizing the mental and physical growth he underwent during his recovery.
#### Persistent Injury Woes
Manchester United faced a staggering 45 injuries last season, not counting those from pre-season, and Martinez’s situation was a microcosm of the team’s struggles. After playing just six games at the beginning of the season, he suffered a recurrence of a metatarsal injury. This injury originally occurred during a Europa League match against Sevilla in April 2023. Although Martinez managed to return for pre-season, the injury flared up again, necessitating a second surgery in late September.
#### Long Road to Recovery
The second surgery sidelined Martinez until January, by which time United had already exited the Champions League and League Cup. Upon his return, he played four matches before suffering another injury in a February game against West Ham. During the match, Hammers defender Vladimir Coufal landed awkwardly on Martinez’s knee, causing damage that kept him out until late March. A subsequent calf injury, incurred shortly after his return, further delayed his comeback, raising concerns that he had been rushed back too soon.
#### Optimism for the Future
Despite the tumultuous season, Martinez is feeling “excellent” as he prepares for Argentina’s Copa America campaign. His determination and positive outlook suggest that he is ready to put the past behind him and focus on the future.
#### Looking Ahead
As Manchester United prepares for the upcoming season, fans and teammates alike will be hopeful that Martinez can stay fit and return to his best form. His resilience and commitment to overcoming adversity have made him a stronger player, and his presence will be crucial for both club and country moving forward.
Martinez’s story is a testament to the challenges athletes face and their capacity to bounce back stronger. As he gears up for Copa America, all eyes will be on him to see how he channels his experiences into performance on the international stage.
