Which former Red was Martinez’s hero?

Thursday 28 July 2022 10:00

A number of Argentinians have passed through the doors of Old Trafford, and new Manchester United signing Lisandro Martinez is the latest.

In his first interview, Martinez discussed his footballing heroes, and it emerged that one former Red was a huge idol for the defender.

When asked if he was aware of the different Argentinians who have represented United over the years, Martinez said: “Yeah, especially Gabriel Heinze. He’s my idol.

“It’s also very important to be here, because, like you say, he was playing here. This was one of my challenges, also.”

Gabriel Heinze forged a reputation as a no-nonsense defender.

Heinze played for United from 2004 to 2007, accumulating 83 appearances. He is the only Argentinian to be named Sir Matt Busby Player of the Year, winning the award for the 2004/05 season.

A left-footed defender, Heinze draws parallels with the Reds’ latest signing, and Martinez revealed the key traits that he admired about his idol.

“The tackles, the passes, the mentality,” he said.

Martinez also has a reputation as a tough-tackling defender, and as the eighth Argentinian to represent the club, he is delighted to join the likes of Juan Sebastian Veron and Heinze in pulling  on the famous red shirt.

“It’s amazing,” he said. “It’s amazing that I take the flag here to Manchester. I’m very proud of it.”

This weekend's Spanish double-header, against Atletico Madrid and Rayo Vallecano, will be shown live on the United App, MUTV and ManUtd.com.

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