Do Manchester United need to explore CB options?

Matthijs de Ligt, Lisandro Martinez of Manchester United

The 2026 FIFA World Cup came to an end on Sunday with Spain reclaiming the title. They won a gritty matchup against Argentina with a 1-0 victory after extra time, and the physicality in the contest led to the early departure of Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez.

The “Butcher” picked up the injury playing his game, an aggressive and fearless approach to defending that sees him cover a lot of ground and make a lot of crunching tackles. His efforts have made him a fan favorite at Old Trafford as one of the few transfer hits from the Erik ten Hag era. His tenure at Old Trafford has not come without bumps and bruises, though, and his absences with bumps and bruises have kept him from playing his best for extended stretches.

With his injury, even expected to be minor, there is some concern over Manchester United’s depth at the position. Matthijs De Ligt in particular was one fans were worried about after a lengthy absence and operation to fix a back injury. He is expected back in October, but has already had some injury problems hinder his career to this point. He and Martinez both missed a lot of time last season due to injury.

The notable absences are papered over somewhat by the enduring presence of Harry Maguire, who somehow rediscovered the confidence and ability that made him one of the club’s most expensive signings in 2019. He too has had his share of knocks and absences, though, and is turning 34 next March.

The presence of Leny Yoro and Ayden Heaven also papered over them. In fact, the immediate answer to the center back depth questions is this: That’s what Leny Yoro and Ayden Heaven are there for. That isn’t an answer that inspires a ton of confidence given the club experienced the reality of multiple injuries shattering the defensive unit in the last two seasons. But if the club is betting on a return to full health for De Ligt and a swift return for Martinez, there isn’t a pressing need for a center back.

The answer may lie somewhere between Heaven and Johnny Evans, who is now on the coaching staff under Michael Carrick. A shrewd move for a promising young defender or a veteran option who is fine playing in League Cup and emergencies. That sort of player would be useful in a campaign where the Reds transition from playing 40 games total to at least 48 games.

Among the free agent options with Premier League experience, John Stones seems unlikely given his history at Manchester City and the wages it would cost. Axel Tuanzebe could be an option, but at 28 he is likely a player looking for regular first-team football.

The club has done well in the market by identifying youth players on short or expiring deals, players the original clubs would like to keep. If there is a center back option there or rising in the ranks at Carrington, that seems to be the best option currently.