Lisandro Martinez has discussed his triumphant victory in Qatar and how he is preparing for his first match back for Manchester United in front of the fans.
The Argentine became the fifth Red in history to win the World Cup whilst representing United at club level, along with legends such as Bobby Charlton and Nobby Stiles.
His national team beat reigning champions France in the final to win the tournament for the third time.
Martinez took time to celebrate with his country before returning to Carrington last week ahead of a packed schedule of fixtures for the Red Devils, in which he will play a crucial role in defence.
His passion and efforts on the pitch quickly made him a fan-favourite amongst the Old Trafford faithful, who had already regarded him as world-class before the competition began. Now, he has the medal to prove it and further cement his status.
The 24-year-old had a chat with the club’s media team ahead of tonight’s clash with Bournemouth, which may be his first outing in red as a world champion.
Martinez’s first club interview as a world champion
The defender told MUTV: “It’s a unique feeling [to be a World Cup winner]. There’s joy. I want to enjoy every second because being a world champion is the ultimate [goal] in football.
“But we’ve celebrated now, finished all the partying, now I’m here focused here in Manchester, and I’ll be working towards giving my all and getting ready for tomorrow’s game [Bournemouth].
“It [return to Carrington] was great. It was lovely. I’ve formed a really good relationship with my teammates, with the staff and everyone who works here. I feel there’s a warmth between us. It was a really warm welcome back. It’s lovely to be here, the people are great and they always show me a lot of affection and that fills me with great pride too.
He added: “It’s always lovely to get that love from the fans whenever I play, and when I see people in the street, they always recognise me and show that affection, that support.
“What I always try to do is give my all for the team, for the club, to fight to the end to always try and win games and to have that mindset, so that’s why we feel connected to the fans.
“I feel great. I needed a few days of training to get back to full strength, and now I feel good, I’m ready… There’s no doubt We’ll be giving it everything [against Bournemouth].”
