Lisandro Martínez Stats: Lisandro Martínez is one of the most promising and talked-about defenders in world football today. His journey from Argentina to Europe’s elite football leagues is a testament to his skill, resilience, and determination. Known for his sharp defensive instincts, ability to read the game, and excellent distribution from the back, Lisandro Martínez has become a fan favorite and a mainstay in the defensive line for both his club and national team. In this article, we will explore his footballing stats, key moments, playing style, and rise to prominence, shedding light on what makes him one of the best in his position.

Early Life and Career Beginnings

Before delving into Lisandro Martínez’s stats, it’s important to understand his footballing origins. Born on January 18, 1998, in Gualeguay, a small town in Argentina, Martínez began playing football at a young age. He joined the youth academy of Club Atlético Newell’s Old Boys, a club well-known for producing top-tier talent, where his natural defensive qualities quickly became apparent.

Move to Defensa y Justicia

Lisandro’s breakthrough came when he signed with Defensa y Justicia in 2017, a club known for developing talented young players. His time at the Argentine club allowed him to gain crucial first-team experience, and his performances didn’t go unnoticed. In his first season with Defensa, Martínez quickly became an integral part of their defense, playing a crucial role in the team’s rise to prominence in Argentina’s Primera División.

During his stint at Defensa y Justicia, Lisandro showcased his versatility, playing as a central defender, a left-back, and even as a defensive midfielder when needed. His ability to adapt to different positions was one of the key factors that made him stand out among his peers.

The Move to Ajax

Lisandro Martínez’s impressive performances in Argentina attracted attention from some of Europe’s top clubs, and in the summer of 2019, he made the move to the Eredivisie side Ajax for a reported €7 million fee. The move marked a major turning point in his career, offering him the opportunity to showcase his abilities on a bigger stage.

At Ajax, Martínez became a key player in the heart of the defense. His composure on the ball, coupled with his tough tackling and aerial ability, made him a vital part of Ajax’s defense. During his time in the Netherlands, Lisandro helped Ajax to numerous domestic titles, including the Eredivisie and the KNVB Cup, while also featuring in European competitions such as the UEFA Champions League.

Key Stats and Achievements at Ajax: Appearances and Minutes Played

Martínez’s consistency was one of the key aspects of his time at Ajax. Across all competitions, he made over 100 appearances for the club during his three years in Amsterdam, playing a total of 8,000+ minutes. His ability to stay fit and maintain a high level of performance throughout the season proved his durability and professionalism.

Goals and Assists

While not known for his goal-scoring prowess, Lisandro Martínez has chipped in with several key goals and assists over the years. He scored 6 goals and provided 4 assists during his time at Ajax, which is impressive for a central defender. His ability to step up in key moments, particularly from set-pieces, made him a valuable asset in both defensive and attacking situations.

Defensive Contributions

In terms of defensive stats, Lisandro Martínez has consistently ranked among the top players in his position. During his time at Ajax, he averaged around 2.5 tackles per game, 1.2 interceptions per game, and 2.5 clearances per game. These stats demonstrate his ability to read the game, break up opposition attacks, and keep his defense solid. Moreover, he was known for his aerial ability, winning approximately 60% of his aerial duels during his tenure at Ajax.

Pass Completion and Distribution

One of the standout features of Lisandro Martínez’s game is his distribution. As a ball-playing central defender, he averaged a pass completion rate of around 89%, which is extremely high for a player in his position. His ability to pick out long passes or short, quick passes to retain possession made him an important part of Ajax’s build-up play.

Trophies and Domestic Success

Lisandro Martínez’s time at Ajax was hugely successful, with the Argentine winning multiple trophies during his stay. These included:

Eredivisie (2019–2020, 2020–2021)

KNVB Cup (2020–2021)

Johan Cruyff Shield (2019)

These titles solidified Martínez’s reputation as one of the top defenders in Europe, and his contribution to Ajax’s success cannot be overstated.

Transfer to Manchester United

In the summer of 2022, Lisandro Martínez made a high-profile move to the Premier League, joining Manchester United for a reported transfer fee of €57 million—a club-record fee for a defender at the time. His arrival was met with a great deal of excitement, and many fans were eager to see how he would fare in the high-paced, intense atmosphere of the Premier League.

A Smooth Transition to the Premier League

Despite concerns over his height—standing at just 5’9” (1.75 meters)—Lisandro quickly adapted to the demands of the Premier League. His combative nature, excellent positioning, and ability to read the game made him a standout performer in United’s defense. Playing alongside Harry Maguire and Raphael Varane, Martínez immediately earned the trust of manager Erik ten Hag, who had worked with him previously at Ajax.

In Summary

Lisandro Martínez’s rise from a small-town footballer in Argentina to one of the top defenders in Europe is a testament to his work ethic, talent, and determination. Whether it’s his stats, leadership, or playing style, there’s no denying that Martínez is a player destined for greatness.

At just 26 years old, Lisandro Martínez has a bright future ahead of him, with many years of top-level football still to come. His consistency, versatility, and ability to perform in high-pressure situations make him one of the most exciting defenders to watch in world football. 

FAQs

How many goals has Lisandro Martínez scored in his career?

As of the 2024 season, Lisandro Martínez has scored 9 goals in professional club football, including both his time at Ajax and Manchester United. While primarily a defender, he has occasionally contributed offensively, particularly from set-pieces and well-timed runs into the box.

At Ajax, he scored 6 goals in domestic competitions, and since joining Manchester United in 2022, he has netted 2 goals in all competitions. His goal-scoring record highlights his ability to add value beyond his primary defensive duties.

How many appearances has Lisandro Martínez made for Manchester United?

Since his move to Manchester United in the summer of 2022, Lisandro Martínez has made over 60 appearances across all competitions. His debut season was highly successful, where he contributed to Manchester United’s triumph in the 2022-2023 Carabao Cup and helped solidify their defense in the Premier League.

What is Lisandro Martínez’s pass completion rate?

Martínez’s ability to play out from the back is one of his standout qualities. He has a remarkable pass completion rate of 89%, both at Ajax and since joining Manchester United. His passing range is highly effective, from short, quick passes to long diagonals, making him a key player in initiating attacks from defense.

How tall is Lisandro Martínez?

Lisandro Martínez stands at 5’9” (1.75 meters), which is considered relatively short for a central defender at the highest level. However, his height has never been a limitation. His exceptional timing in aerial duels, positioning, and physicality compensate for his stature, allowing him to dominate in the air despite being shorter than most defenders.

What is Lisandro Martínez’s playing style?

Lisandro Martínez is a ball-playing central defender known for his intelligence, strong tackling, and aerial ability. His defensive attributes include excellent positioning, leadership qualities, and the capacity to read the game. He is also adept at playing the ball out from the back, making short passes and long diagonals to switch the play or start counter-attacks.

His versatility allows him to play as a left-back or defensive midfielder when required, showcasing his adaptability in different roles. His aggression and commitment to every challenge also make him a fan favorite.

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