Lisandro Martinez stretchered off as Palace pile on misery for Man Utd

The Argentine defender was stretchered off during the latter stages of the game, casting doubts over his participation for the rest of the season.

Ruben Amorim, United's manager, expressed his concern over Martinez's condition, stating, "Licha is really important for us, not just as a football player but the character he has, especially in this hard moment.

"Now it's time for us to help Licha. I think it's a bad situation. Let's wait to assess things with the doctor, but I think it's a serious situation."

The match saw United struggle in both defence and attack. The Red Devils started energetically, with Alejandro Garnacho showing promise on the left, but his efforts were thwarted by a solid Palace defence.

Despite some sharp passing movements, Kobbie Mainoo's shot hitting the post was the closest United came to scoring in the first half.

Crystal Palace, riding a wave of good form, took control as the game progressed. Jean-Philippe Mateta, who has been in fine form since Oliver Glasner took charge, scored twice in the second half.

His first came from a rebound after Maxence Lacroix's header hit the crossbar, and the second was a simple finish after a pass from Daniel Munoz.

The game's turning point was Martinez's injury, which not only affected United's on-field performance but also their morale.

Amorim made late changes, bringing on Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee, but it wasn't enough to salvage a point.

This loss marks United's seventh defeat in 13 home league games this season, dropping them to 13th in the league table.

Amorim, who has described this United team as the "worst in United's history," tried to remain optimistic, saying, "It was a hard day for the team and fans. We lose again and suffer two goals that we can avoid. It's normal for the fans to feel negative; it is a hard season for them, but football can change in certain moments.

"I will prepare for the next game and move forward. Better things will come."

With the transfer window closing soon, United have little time to bolster their squad, particularly in defence.

Patrick Dorgu was introduced before kickoff as a new signing from Lecce for 25 million pounds, but Amorim emphasized the need for prudent transfer decisions, noting, "We are trying everything to improve the team without making mistakes of the past, and trying to balance the urgency of the moment."

As Crystal Palace celebrate their fourth win in five games, the pressure mounts on Amorim to turn around United's fortunes, especially with key players like Martinez facing uncertain recovery times.