The drama at Manchester United shows no signs of dying down after Lisandro Martinez found himself at the center of a public feud with former stars Nicky Butt and Paul Scholes.
What began as lighthearted banter on a podcast has spiraled into a full-blown clash, leaving the club scrambling to manage its image.
Butt, who has recently joined the new social media platform Peek, and Scholes, reportedly in talks to join the site, have a ready-made megaphone to share their views—and with a focus on short, punchy posts, it’s unlikely tensions will simmer quietly anytime soon.
The Height Jibe That Sparked It All
Ahead of the Manchester derby, Butt and Scholes poked fun at Martinez’s height on The Good, The Bad & The Football podcast.
Butt joked that Erling Haaland could pick up the 5ft 9in Argentine and run with him, while Scholes added that the City striker would toss him into the net.
Martinez responded on the pitch after keeping Haaland quiet in United’s 2-0 derby victory, daring Scholes to repeat his comment face-to-face.
The message was clear: the old boys are far bolder with microphones than they are in the stadium.
Podcast Backlash and Dressing Room Concerns
On the latest podcast, Butt called Martinez overly sensitive, saying he needed to “grow up,” while Scholes advised the United defender to develop thicker skin.
Despite claims that Martinez “got emotional,” sources note that he remained composed during post-match interviews.
Inside Old Trafford, there’s a sense of frustration among the squad.
While constructive criticism is welcome, players feel personal digs from ex-players create unnecessary pressure and negativity, particularly during already tense periods.
Rising Youth Stars Bring Optimism
While the senior team navigates media distractions, Darren Fletcher is preparing a youthful assault in the FA Youth Cup.
Chido Obi will link up with 15-year-old JJ Gabriel for the first time in a competitive setting, forming a potentially explosive front three alongside Bendito Mantato.
Obi, the previous season’s top scorer in the Youth Cup, was recently trialed in a behind-closed-doors friendly against Celtic.
Fletcher sees the duo as key to United ending their four-year Youth Cup drought.
New Faces in Sports Medicine
Michael Carrick’s takeover has brought fresh energy to Old Trafford, including Dr Imtiaz Ahmad as United’s new head of sports medicine.
Ahmad arrives as part of a phased handover, replacing Gary O’Driscoll, who remains temporarily to ensure a smooth transition.
This strategic reshuffle aims to strengthen player care as the club enters a critical run of fixtures under Carrick’s interim management.
Fans Plan Protest Despite Derby Triumph
Even amid the derby euphoria, The 1958 supporters group is pressing ahead with a protest against the Glazers and minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe.
Scheduled before the Fulham home game on February 1, the demonstration targets club ownership policies rather than on-field performances.
A spokesman clarified, “This is for fans being priced out of the game and unfair treatment, not a reaction to the results or Carrick in the dugout.”
Matheus Cunha Trains for More Than Football
Brazilian forward Matheus Cunha is taking his competitive spirit beyond the pitch, starting training in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu under world champion Lucio Rodrigues.
Having earned his white belt, Cunha is aiming high—mess with him or his teammates, and there’s more than football to contend with.
Kobbie Mainoo Reassured by Carrick
Michael Carrick’s supportive approach has revived the confidence of young midfielder Kobbie Mainoo, who had been considering a loan move after limited opportunities under the previous regime.
Starting in the recent Manchester derby, Mainoo delivered an excellent performance and is now motivated to stay and contribute regularly.
United remain in talks over a midfield signing and a potential left winger, which could influence the futures of players like Manuel Ugarte and Toby Collyer, the latter set for a loan to Hull City.
Scouting the Next Generation
United’s recruitment team is tracking several promising talents, including 17-year-old left back Yisa Alao from Sheffield Wednesday and Croatian-Brazilian midfielder Belinho.
Both youngsters have drawn attention from multiple top European clubs, but Old Trafford remains keen to secure deals before their professional contracts are finalized.
James Overy Shines for Australia
In international news, United’s James Overy impressed during the Under-23 Asian Cup, leaving coaches and teammates alike impressed with his adaptability and skill.
Despite some light-hearted embarrassment in team activities, Overy’s potential for the senior squad is clear, and he continues to gain valuable experience on the global stage.
Carrick’s Personality Off the Pitch
Far from the serious image sometimes portrayed, Michael Carrick is known for his humor and love of team camaraderie.
From belting out Wonderwall with Robbie Keane to dancing on tables with Ryan Giggs, Carrick brings energy, enthusiasm, and leadership wherever he goes—a trait that seems to be resonating positively with his squad.
Legends and the Wider Football Scene
Former stars, including Louis Saha and Dimitar Berbatov, are set to play in a Legends match against Southampton, celebrating historic FA Cup achievements.
Meanwhile, reports linking Manchester United to NBA Europe have been denied, confirming that the basketball venture will proceed without United’s involvement.
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