This week, injured Manchester United player Lisandro Martinez has been enjoying some time off. He posted photos of himself and girlfriend Muri Lopez Benitez vacationing in Ibiza to Instagram.
The 25-year-old sustained a metatarsal fracture in his foot while playing for the Red Devils in their 2-2 Europa League quarterfinal tie against Sevilla. He has been recovering by sunbathing on the Spanish island.
Martinez’s colleagues from Argentina have been spotted practicing in China in advance of their friendly match against Australia on Thursday.
Martinez posted a photograph of himself on a video conference with his Argentina teammates, who were in their hotel room wearing their training outfits, while sipping “Mate,” a characteristic South American tea.
In others, the brash defender appeared to be having fun at the adults-only Ushuaia beachside hotel and dance club with his girlfriend and friends.
Several Manchester City players, including Jack Grealish, recently stopped by this same hotel for a brief celebration while on their tour to celebrate winning the Triple Crown.
Alejandro Garnacho, his Argentina and United colleague, recently gave an explanation for why he left Spain out of the World Cup winning squad and gave praise to Martinez, whom he referred to as a “father figure,” for helping him grow back in Manchester.
Martinez’s injury dealt a serious setback to Manchester United because it prevented him from participating in the team’s FA Cup final loss to Manchester City, a trophy that would have allowed their opponents to move up to the renowned treble list.
The Argentine fan favorite’s return to United’s preseason tour is much anticipated as they attempt to build on Erik ten Hag’s successful debut season, which included League Cup victory and Champions League qualification.
Erik ten Hag is reportedly trying to add depth to his roster for the upcoming season. Rasmus Hojlund, Mason Mount, David Raya, and England captain Harry Kane are among the players who have been connected to possible trades.
On Thursday, Argentina will play Australia, who will be out for retribution against the side that eliminated them from the World Cup in the round of sixteen.
Next week, the World Cup champions take against Indonesia in the second of their two friendly.