Why Martinez and Sabitzer are not playing for Manchester United against Barcelona

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Why are Lisandro Martinez and Marcel Sabitzer not playing for Manchester United against Barcelona? Many have been asking ahead of the Europa League clash as lineups are announced.

Both the Argentina international and the Austria international are not involved for the Red Devils at the Camp Nou, despite the fact they are key players under Erik ten Hag.

So, why are Martinez and Sabitzer not playing for Manchester United? Let’s take a look…

Why are Martinez and Sabitzer not playing?

Well, there is no need to panic.

This is not a situation like we saw at Wolves, where Ten Hag dropped Marcus Rashford for disciplinary reasons.

Martinez and Sabitzer are not involved simply due to the fact they are suspended.

Both have already picked up three yellow cards in UEFA competitions this season, which warrants a one-game ban.

Sabitzer was booked three times for Bayern Munich in Group C before joining Manchester United on loan in January, and despite the fact that was a different UEFA competition, the ban still applies.

As per rule 52.03 on UEFA’s official website, suspensions carry over from one UEFA competition to another within the same campaign.

In regards to Martinez, the South American picked up three yellow cards as Manchester United finished second behind Real Sociedad in Group E.

In some positive news for Ten Hag and Manchester United fans, the pair will be available for the second leg at Old Trafford – barring any disasters in Catalonia, the Dutchman will expect his side to still be in the tie by that point.

Despite the fact Sabitzer is suspended, the 28-year-old can still help his teammates out.

The Austrian was involved in both Group C clashes for Bayern Munich against Barcelona this season, so he can provide some insight regarding how Xavi’s side operate, and who Ten Hag needs to be wary of.

Even without two quality footballers in Martinez and Sabitzer, the Europa League Round of 32 clash should still be a fantastic spectacle between two European giants.