How my wife’s labour made me reconsider retirement after ACL injury — Manchester United’s Martínez
Abdullateef Fowewe
Manchester United centre back, Lisandro Martínez has revealed that the severe anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury he suffered in early 2025 left him contemplating retirement.
Martínez in an interview on Saturday acknowledged that the birth of his daughter and his wife’s strength during childbirth reignited his determination to continue his career.
“I was considering retirement from football after I suffered ACL injury last year,” Martínez said, describing the physical and psychological toll of the setback.
“I just didn’t want to suffer anymore, you know? I was really hit low, but then my daughter was born, and that kind of balanced everything out for me,” he added.
The Argentina defender sustained a torn ACL in his left knee during a Manchester United home match against Crystal Palace on February 3, 2025, when he was stretchered off in tears.
The injury required surgery and sidelined Martínez for roughly nine to ten months, keeping him out until around November 2025.
The ACL tear compounded earlier problems, including foot and metatarsal issues and triggered a period of intense mental struggle during his rehabilitation.
“I saw how my wife gave birth and the immense effort she made, and I said to myself: How am I not going to keep fighting?” Martínez added, crediting his family for restoring his fighting spirit and motivation to return to the pitch.
National team-mate and captain Lionel Messi praised Martínez’s resilience and affection for the squad, noting the mutual respect within the group.
“He told me. I know that Lisandro has a lot of affection for me, just like this whole group does.
“They always have a kind word and they show it to me day after day. I am honestly happy,” Messi said.
Martínez’s comments underscore the emotional as well as physical challenges elite players face during long-term injuries, and highlight the role of family and team support in recovery.
