Lisandro Martinez has responded strongly to pre-match criticism from pundits, particularly Paul Scholes and Nicky Butt, following Manchester United's impressive 2-0 victory over Manchester City in the Manchester derby. The Argentine defender delivered a commanding performance, contributing to a clean sheet and effectively neutralizing City's star striker, Erling Haaland.
Before the game, Scholes and Butt, speaking on The Good, The Bad & The Football podcast, had questioned Martinez's ability to handle Haaland's physicality. Butt suggested Haaland would "pick Martinez up and run with him," while Scholes ominously stated, "He'll score then throw him in the net". These comments fueled pre-match discussions about a potential mismatch between the two players.
However, Martinez silenced his doubters with a stellar display. Haaland, who is widely considered one of the best strikers in the world, was kept quiet throughout the match and was eventually substituted to jeers from the Old Trafford crowd. Martinez's performance included crucial clearances, won duels, and a general sense of composure that solidified United's defense.
In a post-match interview, Martinez addressed the criticism head-on. When asked about the pundits' pre-match comments, he responded defiantly, stating, "Honestly, he can say whatever he wants. I told him already, if he wants to say something to me, he can come to me wherever he wants. To my house, wherever. I don't care". He further dismissed the criticism by saying, "You know people can always talk whatever they want, it's something I can't control. What I can only do is show it on the pitch. I think today I showed it".
Martinez also gestured towards the crowd after the final whistle, seemingly in response to the pre-match doubts. He emphasized that external opinions don't affect his motivation, which comes from his family. "Imagine if we thought what the people said, it shows we have to be focused for the best of this club, we want to change this situation and we're the only ones who can change it," Martinez stated.
The victory over Manchester City marked a significant moment for Manchester United, especially as it was Michael Carrick's first game in charge as interim head coach. Martinez lauded Carrick's impact, noting the clear message the new manager delivered to the team: "use the energy of the people". Martinez felt the team executed this message perfectly, creating an atmosphere where "it is impossible to lose at home". Bryan Mbeumo and Patrick Dorgu scored the goals that sealed the win, propelling United into the top five of the Premier League.
Martinez's commanding performance and defiant response to criticism highlight his importance to Manchester United. His partnership with Harry Maguire at the back proved solid, limiting Manchester City to few clear-cut chances. Beyond his individual performance, Martinez praised the team's collective effort and the "different energy" he felt among the players.
