History of Lisandro Martinez “The Butcher”: Why He takes Zero Prisoners

Known widely in Gualeguay, Argentina, and across the globe, Lisandro, the son of Silvina Cabrera and Raúl Martinez, proudly carries the nickname “The Butcher.” This article chronicles Lisandro’s journey from a humble and impoverished childhood to becoming a renowned footballer. Licha’s story is one of family, dreams, and relentless determination. Alongside his wife, Muriel Lopez Benitez, his life off the pitch is as fascinating as his defensive prowess on it. We’ll explore Lisandro’s Argentine roots, family background, and the personal values that fuel his success both on and off the field.

Preamble:

Our version of Lisandro Martinez’s Biography begins by unveiling the notable events of his childhood and Early Life.

Then, we’ll explain the early decisions Licha took as a child in his quest to end poverty in his family. Finally, how the “Butcher” became a household name in soccer.

We hope to whet your autobiography Appetite as you read Lisandro Martinez’s Biography. To begin that, let’s first present you with this life story gallery that portrays his Early Life and Great Rise. No doubt, it tells a story that Lisandro has come a long way in his life.

A little shy, calm, low profile and sensitive to social injustice, Martinez is praised for his ability to adapt to European football.

His teammates at Ajax call him “the Butcher” because of his aggression and the use of his intelligence on the field. Here is video evidence of that.

Despite the many great things he does to entertain fans on the pitch, we found knowledge gaps.

The truth is, not many soccer fans have read our in-depth version of Lisandro Martinez’s Biography. So, we’ve made it for you and without further ado, let’s begin.

Lisandro Martinez Childhood Story:

For Biography starters, he bears two nicknames – “Butcher” and “Licha”.

Lisandro Martinez was born on the 18th day of January 1998 to his Father, Raúl Martinez and Mother, Silvina Cabrera, in Gualeguay, Argentina. Martínez’s parents had him under the Aquarius zodiac sign.

From what research can tell, the Argentine Defender appears to be one among two children (male and female) born to the marital union between his parents.

Now, let’s introduce you to Raúl Martinez and Silvina Cabrera, the people who brought Lisandro to the world.

Growing-Up Years:

As far as his boyhood years were concerned, Lisandro would forever cherish this childhood photo he had with his Mum.

By looking at them, you can sense the enduring tenderness and love between Silvina and her only son.

This love between Lisandro and his Mum has stayed like that for years and transcends all affections of the heart.

Aside from his Mum and Dad, Lisandro spent plenty of his childhood years alongside his little sibling.

In the cookies of his boyhood days, Lisandro Martinez’s sister has been his chocolate chip. Although she sometimes got into his stuff and drove him to the limits, she would always remain Martinez’s little angel.

Lisandro Martinez Early Life:

The Argentine professional footballer spent his boyhood years chasing a soccer ball. Back then, you could always find Lisandro at every place where he had to kick the ball.

Also, the youngster found lots of happiness watching his idol, who is no other than Gabriel Heinze.

Lisandro Martinez’s humble beginnings began in his family shelter, which is the El Molino neighbourhood of Gualeguay, Entre Ríos, Argentina.

In fact, Football made him in that environment, and the memories of playing the beautiful game in Molino would always make him feel Nostalgic.

Lisandro Martinez Family Background:

In an interview, Licha once revealed he comes from a below-average household, and he truly knows what it means to go hungry.

Put simply, Lisandro Martinez’s parents weren’t the rich type. Silvina and Raúl operated a close-knit family where food was sometimes lacking.

Because of his poor upbringing, there is always this soft side to Lisandro Martinez. This soft side allows him to naturally feel the pains of anyone who suffers.

The Defender once said that when he sees a person who is having a bad time, he always puts himself in their shoes and will do his best to help.

Lisandro Martinez Family Origin:

The first thing to know about Licha’s origins is the fact that his nationality (both from his mother’s and father’s side) in Argentina.

Lisandro Martinez’s Family is from Gualeguay, a town in the province of Entre Ríos. It is 234 km from Buenos Aires, Argentina’s capital city.

Gualeguay, where he comes from (as shown in the map above), is in Entre Rios. This is a province in Argentina’s northeastern Mesopotamia region.

Lisandro Martinez’s origin lies between the Paraná and Uruguay rivers. The place is blessed with hot springs and national parks.

Lisandro Martinez’s Ethnicity:

Following our research, we could trace the Argentine footballer to an ethnographic Division known as the Amerindians.

Put simply, Lisandro Martinez’s ancestry has a relationship with the Native Argentine people. There is no documentation about his parents having any European family roots.

Lisandro Martinez’s Education:

As a child, his wish was no other than to attend a soccer school. One of the places where Lisandro got the opportunity to practice soccer was near his grandfather’s house, where he grew up.

It was very nice for him to get a soccer education there at the tender age of four. Then (at that tender age), he joined a local club, Club Urquiza.

For a period of four years, Lisandro Martínez kept on receiving (on and off-field) soccer education with Club Urquiza.

While there, he made great friends with a teammate. On the 18th day of September 2014, Lisandro celebrated 11 years of friendship with his one and only best friend; both of them are pictured here.

Lisandro Martinez Biography – Football Story:

In the year 2006 (that World Cup year), the youngster from Gualeguay felt more motivated to be a professional.

The joys of seeing his hero, Carlos Tevez, shine at the tournament gave him some motivation. That year, Lisandro Martinez decided he would try out a bigger soccer academy.

Following a successful trial with Club Libertad, he joined the club. From the age of 8 to 15 years, Lisandro excelled through the Libertad junior ranks.

More importantly, he kept his best friend by his side. In another World Cup year (2014), these two Pals said their goodbyes.

Early Years with Newell’s Old Boys:

It is every Argentine footballer’s dream to join a football club which raised the likes of Lionel Messi.

In the year 2014, Lisandro Martinez secured a successful trial with the great Rosario club. Also, from that year, the son of Raúl and Silvina took his passion (playing football) to be his only job.

Road to Fame Story:

With Newell’s Old Boys, the young talent turned into a versatile footballer. He became a boy who could adapt to any position required by his coach.

Lisandro Martinez’s parents at this time could only see him at a specific time. This is because Lisandro lived as a boarding football student.

Now living without his father or mother, Licha knew he had to fix things by himself.

Back then, his parents (notably Silvina, his Mum) would do everything thing for him. Now, with no family by his side, he took responsibility, especially for his clothes, boots, and career.

It didn’t take long for Lisandro Martínez to turn into a prodigy with Newell’s Old Boys.

From the moment the Gualeguay kid knew he could do something well, his confidence began to explode. Lisandro got to the point where he (as a defender) did score lots of goals for fun.

The beginning of the European attraction:

With what happened to Lionel Messi (when FC Barcelona stole him from Newell’s Old Boys), the same situation almost developed with Lisandro.

This time, scouts from top European clubs began eyeing the Defender, who scored goals, won trophies and made news headlines.

Becoming a subject of transfer interest:

Martinez trusted in his abilities, as he knew he was the kind of player top European clubs seek for.

For the young Argentine, there was no need to hurry. Before accepting any transfer offer abroad, Lisandro Martinez decided he would stay in Argentina for a few more years.

The fast-rising Argentine Defender continued his footballing maturation with another club – Defensa y Justicia (a club that once had Guido Rodriguez).

In 2017, Lisandro delighted his family by receiving a call-up to the U-20 national team for the South American Youth Football Championship in Ecuador.

Yet again (another move during a FIFA World Cup year), Defensa y Justicia signed Martínez permanently in the month of June 2018. In less than a year after he signed for the club, AFC Ajax scouts had travelled to Lisandro Martínez’s family house to knock at their door.

With Raúl Martinez (his Dad) and Silvina Cabrera (his Mum) blessings, Licha accepted the huge challenge of going to Europe at the tender age of 21.

To safeguard against other clubs swooping in on the €7 million deal scheduled for July 1, 2019, Ajax expedited the medical examination, conducting it on May 20th.

The Difficult Early Years in Europe:

Many South American stars (like Philippe Coutinho) who moved to Europe quite early can testify.

That it is difficult to quickly acclimatize to the new climate and surroundings. Lisandro Martinez’s parents, as well as his girlfriend, gave him the emotional support he needed to get used to his new world.

Lisandro Martinez found a supportive environment within his club, thanks to fellow countrymen like Nicolás Tagliafico and Lisandro Magallán (who shares his first name), who made sure he felt at home.

A few local Dutch teammates like Klass-Jan Huntelaar and Donny van de Beek helped him settle with Ajax.

Lisandro Martinez Biography – Success Story:

Thanks to the support he got from teammates, girlfriend and family members, Licha settled down quickly.

That same 2019, he joined Ajax, and great things began coming his way. To the joy of Lisandro Martinez’s family, he received a double nation team promotion that year.

In the space of months, the Defender joined Argentina’s U-23 and then got a call-up to the senior team.

Did you know?… Lisandro got his call-up on the same month that Gonzalo Higuain retired from Argentina’s national team. So, he missed out on playing alongside the Legend.

Nevertheless, Lisandro still had the opportunity to rub shoulders with other great names. Eg, the likes of the great Lionel Messi, Angel di Maria (RW), Paulo Dybala (SS), Sergio Aguero, etc. From Ajax’s point of view, there was massive progress under the command of Erik ten Hag.

The Argentine, alongside Perr Schuurs, Jurrien Timber (RB), Daley Blind, etc., have shown that they can continue the good works of Matthijs de Ligt.

He was their defensive leader and Ex Ajax captain, who left for Juventus in 2019 – after some Cristiano Ronaldo persuasions.

At the time of writing Lisandro Martinez’s Biography, he had won four trophies (within the space of four years) with Ajax.

These honours include Johan Cruyff Shield (2019), Eredivisie (2020–21, 2021–22), KNVB Cup (2020–21).

Let’s not forget that Licha became Ajax’s 2021/2022 player of the year. According to TalkSport, Erik ten Hag wishes to take him along with him to Man United.

Becoming a Copa América and CONMEBOL–UEFA Champion:

It is no longer news that Lisandro entered the great history of Argentine soccer in 2021.

He, alongside Nicolas Otamendi, the fast-rising Cristian Romero, etc, defended their country from the hands of Brazil to win the 2021 Copa Libertadores. What a great feeling to lift this GREAT trophy.

Lisandro Martínez’s Story of greatness didn’t end with winning the 2021 Copa América. On the 1st day of June 2022, he made history by helping Argentina to be the first country to win the CONMEBOL–UEFA title. More importantly, he joined football’s GOAT in achieving this feat.

The rest of Lisandro Martinez’s Biography, as we say, is now history. Having told you about Licha’s career journey, we’ll use the next section to discuss his love life.

In other words, facts about Lisandro and Muriel Lopez Benitez. So, without further ado, let’s begin.

Lisandro Martinez Love Story with Muri López Benítez:

For decades, a global quote has existed which says that “behind every successful man is a woman”. Lisandro is no doubt a successful footballer.

Behind the career rise of the defender comes a very beautiful woman who goes by the name Muriel Lopez Benitez, AKA Muri.

When did they start dating (Lisandro and Muri)?

To start with, they (just like Luis Diaz and his wife, Gera Ponce) were once childhood best friends who became lovers.

Judging by their social media timelines, the love story between the two birds dates back to July 21st 2014 when they both had their first kiss.

At the time Lisandro Martinez met his lover (Muri López Benítez), he had just enrolled with Newell’s Old Boys.

Muri stood by Lisandro when there he was nobody, a time he had not made it in life. Those years, the new girlfriend said these words to her man;

I ask that you do not fail me, that you never leave me.

And that you never forget that it is I, Muri, who loves you.

that it is I who awaits you. I love you with my life, my soul, and my heart.

A very excited Lisandro, who had just fallen in love, reciprocated the gesture to Muri, his new girlfriend. Now, these were the love words of Lisandro;

The night you hugged me, and I kissed you, we didn’t sleep or suffer anymore. I feel like loving you to infinity, and I thank you for being with me. You are my strength and the reason that drives me to continue. I ask you to never leave me and I would always love you, my partner.

About Muri Lopez Benitez:

While conducting research on her Bio, we found some cool facts about Lisandro Martinez’s girlfriend and wife-to-be. Regarding her occupation, Muri is a model. She always makes super-lightning photoshoots (as seen above) to trill her more than 29K Instagram fans.

Additionally, Lisandro Martinez’s partner prides herself as a carnival dancer – which is her main occupation.

Have you heard of the Gualeguaychu Carnival? It is the most important of Argentina’s Carnival celebrations. Muri never fails to deliver her dance skills at the carnival.

Lisandro Martinez’s Children with Muri:

As of 2022, both celebrities seem not to have any son or daughter from their relationship.

Muri and Lisandro have a pet dog, which they consider a part of their family. For the couple, caring for their dog is a wonderful way to prepare for looking after their future children.

Personal Life:

Away from everything he does on the pitch, who is Lisandro Martinez?

Many years ago, he was very introverted. Lisandro learned how to change that and be more open to people.

To fix that habit, Lisandro Martinez’s girlfriend (Muriel) played a role in helping him get out of his introverted personality. He listened to her advice and began bonding with many friends.

These days, Lisandro Lopez doesn’t hold anything back. He is the kind of person who often expresses his opinions on social issues, especially on gender violence and human rights. Licha always wants to help people. He believes people should have the right to express themselves.

Lisandro Martinez’s poor family background is the reason he often gets moved by people’s sufferings. He never forgets the thing he experienced as a child.

And he is quick to identify people who need help and how to manage criticism from people. With regards to that, here are some favourites of Lisandro Martinez’s quotes.

You’ll never reach your destination if you stop to respond to every distraction along the way.

Did you know?… Lisandro Martínez is so humble to the extent of him not wanting to see his opponent suffer so much from the pains he caused.

In the photo below, Lisandro and Cameroonian goalkeeper Andre Onana once consoled a VVV-Venlo player after their Ajax side trashed them 13 – 0.

Lisandro Martínez Lifestyle:

When it comes to enjoying his life, the Argentine is no stranger to knowing the most ideal holiday destinations.

From the most scintillating island of Isla Holbox to the Villasimius Italian coast and the almighty Eiffel Tower, Lisandro and Murial have seen them all.

For Lisandro and Muriel, there is nothing as heartwarming as professing their love under the sunset of their favourite beach. Nothing soothes the souls of these two love birds like having a perfect evening by the ocean.

Lisandro Martinez Car:

Licha was well above the minimum driving age when he departed Argentina to join Ajax. Like many other Ajax footballers, Lisandro Martinez owns a car.

As I put up his Bio, the identity of his car (brand) remains hidden. This is Licha in his car after making a fan happy.

Lisandro Martínez Family Life:

During those early years (before a match and after the final whistle), he never fails to bond with household members before making his way to the tunnel.

This section of Lisandro Martinez’s Bio tells you facts about his parents, siblings and extended family members.

About Lisandro Martinez’s Father:

The first thing to know about Raúl Martinez is the fact that he has got terrible emotions.

Lisandro Martinez’s father couldn’t hide his tears upon realizing his son was about to captain the national team. After Lisandro’s triumph in winning the 2021 Copa América, everyone eagerly awaited his return from Brazil.

Did you know?… Raúl Martinez hired a fire truck which Lisandro used in touring his family’s hometown of Entre Ríos, in Gualeguay.

Based on his appearance, it seems Raúl Martinez had his son Lisandro in his late 30s or early 40s. It’s no surprise that Licha affectionately refers to his dad as ‘Old Man.’

Raúl, back in the day, wasn’t a rich man. The proud Dad raised a humble family and gave Lisandro not riches but that spirit of reverence.

Lisandro Martinez’s Mother

In the course of writing this Bio, we notice an enduring tenderness and love between Silvina Cabrera and her beloved son.

This love is like that experience between Savio (a Brazilian winger, who we have written about) and his Mum. Lisandro Martinez’s Mum love for him transcends all other affections of the heart.

One of Silvina Cabrera’s most cherished moments is seeing her son win the 2021 Copa América. In the photo below, Lisandro, fresh from his victory, embraces his mother in a heartfelt hug.

 

Lisandro Martinez’s Relatives:

Did you know?…  it was only recently that he found he had an extended family member who was a great footballer.

That man’s name is Ramón “Mencho” Medina Bello. He (pictured below) is not just Lisandro Martinez’s family member (extended), but a winner of the 1991 and 1993 COPA America for Argentina.

Lisandro Martinez’s Sister:

In the course of researching his Biography, we notice the Argentine hails from a family of four. A very important member of the family is Lisandro Lopez’s younger sibling (a sister).

Lisandro, who is very fond of his little sister, refers to her as Candy. Did you know?… Licha is also a Godfather to his sister.

Lisandro Martinez’s Grandparents:

First, let’s tell you a bit about Licha’s grandma. Lisandro describes her, together with his mother, sister and partner (Muri Lopez Benitez) as the biggest loves of his life.

Both of Martinez’s grandparents made his childhood days have a true meaning. In are the words of the footballer to his Granddad;

As a child, I often go to my grandfather’s house. I grew up there in the Molino neighbourhood.

Lisandro deeply values the influence of his grandfather in his upbringing. His grandfather, a man from Entre Ríos, remains one of the most significant figures in Lisandro’s life, ensuring he had a joyful childhood.

Untold Facts:

In the concluding phase of Lisandro Martinez’s Biography, we’ll tell you Facts you might not have known about the very committed defender. Without further ado, let’s begin.

Lisandro Martinez “Butcher” Nickname:

One of the Athlete Ajax’s teammates (of whom he is not aware of) gave him the new nickname because of how aggressive he gets on the pitch. In an interview, Lisandro Martinez was once asked;

Is it true that they call you “Butcher” in your club, Ajax? Why do they call you this nickname? Lisandro, upon hearing the interviewer’s question, laughed and then responded;

It is most likely because I’m aggressive in my game. The truth is, I don’t know who gave me that nickname.
Also, it is because I like to tackle each ball as the last. My teammates told me that the nickname suited me, haha…

The court case related to Lisandro Martinez:

According to Argentine media, it was about a trial of gender-based violence against a man called Omar David Romero.

This victim happens to be an ex-partner of a mother (with a nine-year-old son) who took his own life on the morning of April 3rd 2021.

The accused (Romero) is a cousin of Lisandro Martínez’s girlfriend, Muri. Upon hearing about the Gender-based crime, Muriel López Benítez publicly denounced Romero.

Both Muriel and Lisandro Martinez’s Mum were once scheduled to testify at the trial, which didn’t hold.

Lisandro Martinez Salary Breakdown:

For a young footballer like him, who makes lots of monies annually, one thing is confirmed. Lisandro Martinez is a multi-millionaire.

Lisandro Martinez Net Worth:

As of June 2022, we value the Argentine footballer’s Net Worth at approximately 4.5 million euros. ScoreFutbol is the name of the agency which represents Lisandro. The agency has ensured he gets the best contracts, and they work hard to increase his market value.

Comparing his Salary to the Average Argentine Citizen:

The average person who lives in Argentine makes around 45,200 Argentine Peso (ARS). Did you know?… such a citizen would need 66 years to make Lisandro Martinez’s weekly salary with his club Ajax. No wonder there is a general notion that Europe footballers are rich.

Lisandro Martinez Profile (FIFA):

We have a piece of evidence that the Argentine is a complete footballer. Lisandro is just like Matteo Darmian, Defensive midfield expert Sandro Tonali, Idrissa Gana Gueye, Pierre-Emile Højbjerg and Tomáš Souček. As observed from his FIFA Stats (below), the Argentine footballer has everything and lacks nothing.

Lisandro Martinez Religion:

The defender from Gualeguay, Lisandro Martinez, is a devout Christian and follows the Catholic faith. His family is part of the 79.6% of Argentina’s population who identify as Christians, with Lisandro among the 62.9% who are Roman Catholics.

What he thinks about Messi:

Aside from Luis Suarez, when you think of someone who knows the Football GOAT in and out, you can count on Lisandro. The two former colleagues of Newell’s Old Boys became very close during their time with the national. Now, here is what Lisandro Martinez thinks about Lionel Messi.

Lionel is a low-profile person. You don’t realize that he is the best footballer in the world because he always doesn’t let you know. He has no pride, he is ordinary, and that is what makes him different. He is a genius who always trying to help everyone.

EndNote:

Nicknamed “Butcher” and “Licha”, Lisandro Martinez was born on the 18th day of January 1998 in Gualeguay, Argentina. The Argentine footballer was born to his Mother, Silvina Cabrera and Father, Raúl Martinez. Martinez appears to have one sibling – his little sister.

Lisandro Martinez’s parents weren’t rich from the onset. His humble beginnings began in his family’s shelter in the El Molino neighbourhood of Gualeguay, Entre Ríos, Argentina. He suffered from poverty during his childhood and that shaped his thinking about life.

Martinez spent his boyhood years chasing a soccer ball. As a child, he idolized Gabriel Heinze. Back then, you can always find Lisandro Martinez at every place where he had to kick the ball. At the young age of four, the footballer joined a local academy, Club Urquiza.

A defining moment in his youth career came when he (in 2014) joined the Lionel Messi’s former academy – the Newell’s Old Boys.

With a new chapter in their son’s life, Lisandro Martinez’s parents got used to having him live away from the family – at faraway locations.

Silvina Cabrera and Raúl Martinez (Lisandro’s Dad and Mum) and his sister would visit him from time to time. Now living without his family, Lisandro got more mature, and his confidence on the pitch exploded. In no time, he became a subject of transfer from European teams.

Lisandro joined Ajax in May 2019, a club where he achieved a meteoric rise.

His success extended to the national stage, where he played a significant role in helping Argentina win the 2021 Copa America. Lisandro remains hopeful and excited about the achievements and milestones he can reach in the future of his career.

Appreciation Note:

As always, we thank you for taking the time to read our version of Lisandro Martinez’s biography. He is a Baller who Elpais refers to as the unexpected Butcher. We care about fairness and accuracy while delivering you stories about Argentine footballers and South American footballers’ bios.

Kindly reach us (via your comments) if you notice anything that doesn’t look right in Lisandro Martinez’s Bio. Also, kindly stay tuned for more related Soccer Stories from Us. On a final note, please tell us what you think about the Argentine and his amazing Life story.