Since his high-profile summer transfer from Ajax, Lisandro Martinez has quickly established himself as one of Old Trafford’s favourite players.
Erik ten Hag signed Martinez at Ajax and he always kept him in the starting XI. This rhythm has continued at Manchester United.
Martinez has started each of the first ten Premier League games, and if he continues in this form, he might be in contention to win the player of the year award in May.
The 24-year-old’s aggressive Argentinian style has won over United supporters, and he has now admitted that another former United player from Argentina is his role model. Martinez acknowledged that one of his inspirations is the disgraced Gabriel Heinze, who attempted to move to Liverpool in 2007. Sir Alex Ferguson famously appointed Heinze as the captain at the conclusion of the 2006–07 campaign, but following a split with the iconic coach, Heinze wanted United to accept a bid from Liverpool.
Heinze was eventually transferred to Real Madrid, where he made just 44 league appearances, and his mighty downfall continued. However, Martinez admits that he was impressed by the former United defender’s playing style. As reported by SkySports, the Argentine centre-back said:
“Gabriel Heinze is my idol. I love him. I love the way he played, very aggressive, good mentality, good mentality in the duels. Every game is a final. He was a top player.”
A breath of new air has arrived at United with Martinez’s arrival. He has refuted any misconceptions regarding his height and position to establish himself as one of the division’s most dependable centre-backs.
He is very confident on the ball, and the balance he has given to Ten Hag’s team is priceless, particularly during the time when the manager wanted to witness a change in the squad set-up.
Martinez will continue to support his teammates despite the fact that United supporters may find it difficult to believe that one of their most loved players holds Heinze in such high regard.
