By: Bryan Li
Known as the “Butcher of Amsterdam”, Lisandro Martinez is a rising star who recently just signed for English giants Manchester United.
Previously playing defense for Ajax, the 24-year-old Argentine will be moving to England to play for the Red Devils. Despite being short for a center-back at a height of just 5’ 9”, his stats are shockingly good. He averages over 90 passes and over 30 forward passes every 90 minutes. Manchester United has struggled defensively, so he will bring a lot to this team.
James Rowe, soccer expert, stated "Some may point to his size of 5ft 9in, but he will quickly adapt to the demands of the Premier League and he will enjoy the challenge…He leaves Ajax with his head held high, two Eredivisie titles and one Dutch Cup - and the love of the Ajax fans.”
His nickname may make him seem like a foul player, but he was only given six yellow cards in all his games last season. However, he still is an extremely aggressive defender, though. “We Argentines do everything with passion, and when I go out on the pitch, I fight for every ball. If I have to step over dead bodies, I do it,” Martinez stated. According to Opta, Martinez has the most aerial duals won and interceptions.
Martinez will join the current five center-backs at Manchester United. Although Martinez is leaving Ajax, he surely will fit in at Manchester.