We called him to the first-team because we believe he’ll add the quality needed in that particular position”: Manchester United’s coach Ruben Amorim has promoted an academy star who’s regarded as the next Lionel Messi to the club first-team due to lack of quality in ONE position. BEEN HEARING ABOUT THIS KID BUT DON’T REALLY KNOW HOW GOOD HE IS.

Rúben Amorim Calls Up Young Academy Defender Following Lisandro Martínez’s Injury

Manchester United manager Rúben Amorim has opted to bring in a promising academy talent following a major injury to Lisandro Martínez during the club’s 2-0 defeat against Crystal Palace.

Martínez’s Injury Leaves a Defensive Gap

Martínez, a key figure in United’s backline, sustained what appeared to be a serious knee injury in the 82nd minute after a collision with Crystal Palace’s Ismaïla Sarr. The Argentine defender was in clear distress and had to be stretchered off, with Matthijs de Ligt stepping in for the remainder of the match.

His absence comes at a crucial time, as he had featured in 15 of United’s last 16 matches, not only strengthening the defense but also contributing two goals and an assist in the 2025 season.

Dante Plunkett Joins First-Team Training

With no defensive reinforcements arriving in the January transfer window, Amorim has turned to the club’s youth ranks for solutions. Among the players stepping up is 17-year-old defender Dante Plunkett, formerly of Aston Villa, who has now been promoted to train with the senior squad.

Plunkett has been making an impact for United’s U18 team and recently shared news of his first-team involvement on Instagram. Primarily a left-back, his adaptability and strong defensive performances under youth coach Adam Lawrence have impressed the club’s coaching staff. This season, he has contributed two goals and two assists at the U18 level, showcasing his ability to support both defense and attack.

United’s Tactical Adjustments and Future Plans

Martínez’s injury presents a dilemma for United’s defensive structure. While Luke Shaw could shift into a central role once fit, and with options like Leny Yoro and Noussair Mazraoui in the picture, Plunkett’s promotion seems to be more about long-term planning rather than an immediate fix.

Amorim’s decision to integrate Plunkett into first-team sessions may be a strategic move to assess his development and potential first-team involvement in cup competitions or as a late-game substitute. This approach signals trust in the club’s youth academy during a challenging period.

Is Plunkett Ready for Senior Football?

The decision to promote Plunkett rather than seek an experienced replacement raises questions about balancing youth development with the demands of Premier League football. Granting him first-team minutes could accelerate his growth and bring fresh energy to the squad, but it also risks exposing a young player to high-pressure matches too soon.

Alternatively, United could explore signing a more seasoned defender in future transfer windows while continuing to nurture Plunkett for a bigger role down the line.

What do you think is the best approach for Manchester United as they navig

ate this defensive setback?