‘A lot of work’ – Lisandro Martinez admits big task ahead to return Man Utd to former glory as transfer confirmed
LISANDRO MARTINEZ has officially signed for Manchester United and he insists he is joining a club destined for success.
The centre-back's transfer has been in the making for weeks and his move was sealed today from Ajax in a £46.3million transfer plus £8.42m in add-ons.
The 24-year-old has signed a five-year contract with the option of a further year.
And he has immediately set his sights on getting the club back on the right tracks under boss Erik ten Hag, who he worked with before at the Dutch side.
Martinez : “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.
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"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 teammates, we can do it.”
Martinez won two Eredivisie titles under Ten Hag at Ajax as well as the 2020-21 KNVB Cup.
The Argentine continued: "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 that.”
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The seven-time capped international also won the 2021 Copa America and is now in a battle with three others to start the season as the preferred centre-back pairing.
Ten Hag has backed Harry Maguire to remain as captain and be first choice which means Victor Lindelof and Raphael Varane will fight for the remaining place with Martinez.
He is United’s third signing of the season after the capture of free agent Christian Eriksen and full-back Tyrell Malacia from Feyenoord.
Manchester United’s Football Director John Murtough said on his latest signing: “Lisandro is an outstanding player who will bring further quality and experience to Erik’s squad.
"We are delighted that he has chosen to join Manchester United, and we are looking forward to seeing him develop further and help the team achieve the success we are aiming for.”