Manchester United’s recent derby victory at Old Trafford didn’t just boost morale—it also gave Lisandro Martinez a chance to respond to critics questioning his stature.
The Argentine defender didn’t hold back after former United stars Paul Scholes and Nicky Butt joked about his size, daring them to repeat their remarks to his face.
On their podcast ahead of the match, Scholes and Butt mocked Martinez’s duel with towering Manchester City striker Erling Haaland.
The 6ft 5in Norwegian, they joked, could easily lift the 5ft 9in United defender and toss him into the goal.
United Shuts Down City and Haaland
Martinez proved the doubters wrong as United cruised to a 2-0 victory under Michael Carrick, who was in his first game as head coach.
The Argentine defender played a pivotal role in nullifying Haaland, who was substituted in the 80th minute after failing to make an impact.
After the game, Martinez made it clear he didn’t appreciate the comments from Scholes and Butt.
He claimed these are statements they wouldn’t dare make in person and even invited them to his home to repeat their remarks face-to-face.
Standing His Ground
Martinez revealed he’s already addressed the issue directly with Scholes.
“Honestly, he can say whatever he wants,” Martinez said.
“I told him already, if he wants to say something to me, he can come to me wherever he wants—my house, anywhere. I don’t care.”
The defender stressed that while media commentary is easy, people rarely say the same things to someone’s face.
“I respect when they want to help the club because everyone can talk on television. But when you see them here, face-to-face, no one says anything in your face,” he added.
Scholes responded with a playful social media message: “Someone’s had a good game, was really happy for you … tea, no sugar pls.”
Jokes About Haaland Dismissed
The controversial remarks on the podcast were lighthearted yet pointed.
Butt quipped: “Haaland would pick Martinez up and run with him. It’d be like a dad running down the street with a little toddler.”
Scholes piled on, joking that Haaland would score and then throw Martinez into the net.
Martinez, however, brushed it off.
“I don’t really care what they say. People will always say whatever they want.
I can’t control that. What I can control is my performance on the pitch, and I think I showed that today,” he said.
Motivation Comes from Within
When asked if the comments spurred him on, Martinez was firm: “No, nothing. My motivation is my family, that’s it.”
He also praised Carrick for stepping in just three days before the derby and getting a performance that felt beyond the previous leadership.
“Different mentality, different guy. He knows what this club really means. He’s a legend here, and he wants to help the club,” Martinez said.
“Today was the perfect moment to change the situation. His confidence and energy made a big difference.”
A Team Effort Secures Victory
Goals from Bryan Mbeumo and Patrick Dorgu sealed the win for United, despite several ruled-out efforts from Amad Diallo, Bruno Fernandes, and Mason Mount. Martinez reflected on the collective performance:
“We deserved to win. We were better on the pitch and gave everything.
When you give everything and see the result, it’s an amazing feeling. For me, it’s about performance, connection with the fans, and connection with the team,” he said.
Martinez also highlighted the team’s renewed spirit.
“Today is the standard for this club. You could feel the mentality. I’m happy with that.”
Central Defence Reunited
Martinez paired with Harry Maguire in central defence for the first time in almost a year, after recovering from a knee injury.
“I’ve known him a long time, and we communicate a lot,” Martinez said.
“Today the team was different, not just with him, but everyone on the pitch.”
United’s fans left Old Trafford with renewed hope, seeing a team fighting with passion, discipline, and a new energy under Carrick.
Martinez’s message was clear: performance speaks louder than criticism.
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