Lisandro Martinez names ‘former Manchester United flop’ as his idol

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 from Ajax and kept him consistently in the starting line-up. This rhythm continued at Manchester United.

Martinez has started every one of the first ten Premier League games, and if he continues this trend, he could be in contention for the player of the year award in May.

The 24-year-old’s aggressive Argentinian style has won over United fans, and he has now admitted that another former Argentinian United player is his role model. Martinez admitted that one of his inspirations is the late Gabriel Heinze, who tried to sign for Liverpool in 2007. Sir Alex Ferguson appointed Heinze captain at the end of the 2006-07 campaign, but after a falling out with the iconic manager, Heinze wanted United to accept an offer from Liverpool.

Eventually Heinze was transferred to Real Madrid, where he made just 44 league appearances, and his downward slide continued. However, Martinez admits he was impressed with the former United defender’s style of play. As reported by SkySports, the Argentine centre-back said:

“Gabriel Heinze is my idol. I love him. I like the way he plays, very aggressive, good mentality, good mentality in duels. Every match is a final. He was a top player.

A breath of fresh air came to United with the arrival of Martinez. He disproved all the misconceptions about his size and position to establish himself as one of the most reliable centre-backs in the division.

He is confident and the balance he has brought to Ten Hag’s team is invaluable, especially at a time when the manager wanted to see a change in the team’s shape.

Martinez will continue to support his teammates, although United fans may find it hard to believe that one of their most valued players holds Heinze in such high regard.