88% pass accuracy, 100% tackles won: Underrated United player made the difference in Leeds win
Lisandro Martinez played a crucial role in Manchester United victory against Leeds United with a score of 2-0.
Erik ten Hag’s team found it difficult to match the speed of the game.
The home team was assertive and pressured Manchester United’s midfield, causing errors.
Manchester United’s primary problem was their lack of ability to pass the ball effectively from their own half.
Harry Maguire and Luke Shaw frequently lacked direction on where to pass the ball.
Leeds United effectively closed off all potential passing options, and without a designated deep-lying midfielder, there was no one available to receive the ball from the back line.
Erik ten Hag made the decision to substitute Martinez into the game in the latter stages of the second half to provide Manchester United with a foundation to advance the ball.
As a result, Manchester United immediately regained control of the game and generated several scoring opportunities.
Lisandro Martinez in 29 minutes vs. Leeds:
— Statman Dave (@StatmanDave) February 12, 2023
88% pass accuracy
38 touches
30/34 passes completed
3/3 tackles won
3/3 ground duels won
2/3 long balls completed
2 ball recoveries
The Butcher. 😤🔪 pic.twitter.com/ogDIQQBjxp
Martinez is widely considered as one of the top defenders in the world with exceptional ball-handling skills.
He possesses excellent intelligence and is able to swiftly advance the ball into the midfield.
Martinez is essentially like having an additional midfielder on the defensive end. He boasts exceptional vision and passing ability.
The decision by Erik ten Hag to bench Martinez in the game came as a surprise to many Manchester United supporters.
The manager made the choice to rotate the team to minimize any potential fatigue and injuries from a demanding schedule.
Unfortunately, Manchester United will be without Martinez for the Europa League playoff match against Barcelona as he is serving a suspension.
88% pass accuracy, 100% tackles won: Underrated United player made the difference in Leeds win
