Lisandro Martinez has said that it’s an honour to join a ‘great football club’ after sealing his transfer to Manchester United from Ajax.
The Argentine has become United’s third signing of the summer transfer window following the arrivals of Tyrell Malacia and Christian Eriksen.
He has joined the Red Devils with a big reputation from his time at Ajax, and has now expressed his delight during his maiden club interview.
He told Manutd.com: “It’s an honour to join this great football club. I’ve worked so hard to get to this moment and, now that I’m here, I’m going to push myself even further.”
“I’ve been lucky enough to be part of successful teams in my career and that’s what I want to continue at Manchester United. There will be a lot of work to get to that moment, but I firmly believe that, under this manager and coaches, and together with my new team-mates, we can do it.
“I want to thank Ajax and their fans for all the support they gave me. I had an unbelievable time there but feel the moment is right to test myself in another environment. Now I am at the perfect club to do this.”
Martinez a perfect foil for Ten Hag and Man Utd
Martinez was a superb performer for the Dutch champions during the 2021/22 campaign. He registered two tackles and 1.9 interceptions per league game while managing 2.8 clearances.
The 24-year-old also won 3.3 aerial duels per appearance while completing nearly 89 per cent of his passes. He was equally impressive during the club’s run in the Champions League.
Hence, he can be considered as a perfect all-round defender. He does not possess any weaknesses, but may need time to adapt to the Premier League as he will encounter more physical players.
Aside from his defensive attributes, his tenacity and workrate should make him a perfect foil for United. Having played for three years under Ten Hag, he should be well versed with the tactics.
If he can adapt to the higher intensity of the English top-flight, he could quickly become one of the leading stars. At 24, he looks on course to have a bright long future with the Red Devils.
United have made a big statement with the huge £57 million outlay to sign Martinez, but Ten Hag will be aware that the club need to add make more marquee signings before the deadline.
A new holding midfielder remains a top priority for the club, but they could also pursue another right-back and winger. Denzel Dumfries and Antony have been linked for those two positions.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com and WhoScored.com
