Lisandro Gets Heroic Welcome at Old Trafford After World Cup Glory

• Lisandro Martinez was accorded a hero's reception at Old Trafford on his return to his club
• The centre-back was part of Argentina's squad that won the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar
• Martinez had to settle for a place on the bench as Manchester United battled Bournemouth

Manchester United centre-back Lisandro Martinez was accorded a befitting reception on his return to Old Trafford on Tuesday night, January 3, following his World Cup triumph with Argentina.

The South American international was not part of United's starting XI that battled Bournemouth in the Premier League however, with Erik ten Hag naming him on the bench.

Martinez played a key role in La Albiceleste's journey to World Cup glory in Qatar in December 2022, with the South Americans seeing off France in the final.

TalkSPORT reports that his Man United teammates and supporters took some time to congratulate him as he made his way onto the stadium, shortly before the Red Devils' clash with the Cherries.

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According to the publication, Martinez was given a standing ovation by jubilant supporters, with his teammates also joined in by applauding him.

Casemiro, Bruno Fernandes, Marcus Rashford and Luke Shaw went on to form a guard of honour and saluted their teammate on his accomplishment.

Man United stuns Bournemouth

Man United ensured that Martinez's return from the World Cup was a memorable one, as they demolished Bournemouth 3-0.

Goals from Casemiro, Shaw and Rashford were enough to help Erik ten Hag's charges see off the Cherries.

The victory took United's tally to 35 points, leaving them trailing second-placed Manchester City by just one point.

Meanwhile, Martinez will be hoping to make the starting XI when his side take on Everton on Friday night at Old Trafford.

Man United want Giroud

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Earlier, Sports Brief reported that Manchester United shortlisted Olivier Giroud among their January transfer targets, according to reports.

The Red Devils are seeking a replacement for Cristiano Ronaldo, who quit the club after his bombshell interview back in November 2022.

United are said to be keen on signing a short-term replacement for the five-time Ballon d'Or winner, and are said to view Giroud as the perfect candidate.