Licha returns to Argentina line-up

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Monday 10 June 2024 15:30

Lisandro Martinez made his first appearance for Argentina since March 2023, as the Albiceleste beat Ecuador 1-0 on Sunday in their first warm-up game ahead of the Copa America.

Former United winger Angel Di Maria scored the only goal after 40 minutes at Soldier Field in Chicago.

While Alejandro Garnacho was an unused substitute for the World Cup winners, Licha partnered Tottenham’s Cristian Romero in defence and completed the full game.

It was a useful tune-up for our no.6, who only returned to United’s starting XI for the final two games of the season, against Brighton and Manchester City, after an injury-hit campaign.

— Manchester United (@ManUtd) June 10, 2024Martinez was reduced to 14 appearances for the Reds in 2023/24 and his various fitness issues also ruled him out of Argentina’s last 11 fixtures, dating back to a 2-0 friendly victory over Panama.

The former Ajax defender hadn’t completed a full 90 minutes for club or country since last August, when he started and finished the 3-2 win over Nottingham Forest at Old Trafford.

Lionel Scaloni’s side have one more friendly, against Guatemala in Washington, before they begin their defence of the South American title when facing Canada on 20 June.

Peru and Chile complete Group A of the 16-team tournament which is taking place in the United States.

Argentina lifted the trophy for a record-equalling 15th time in 2021, beating host nation Brazil in the final.

WHEN ARE UNITED NEXT IN ACTION?

The Reds will return to the pitch on 15 July, when we face Rosenborg in Trondheim for our first pre-season game. Following a friendly against Rangers at Murrayfield, Edinburgh on 20 July, we’ll fly out to the United States for Tour 2024, comprising three clashes with Arsenal (Los Angeles, 27 July), Real Betis (San Diego, 31 July) and Liverpool (Columbia, 3 August). You can buy tickets for all of our pre-season games here, subject to availability.

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Monday 10 June 2024 15:30