Manchester United legends Nicky Butt and Paul Scholes have found themselves in hot water with fans after some eyebrow-raising comments about Lisandro Martinez’s ability to handle Erling Haaland.
The pair appeared on The Good, The Bad & The Football podcast, giving their take ahead of Saturday’s eagerly anticipated Manchester derby at Old Trafford.
Podcast Chat Turns to City Threat
The discussion began with comedian and United fan Paddy McGuinness suggesting that Michael Carrick’s presence could give United a much-needed lift.
“You know that new manager bounce? I can see United beating City,” McGuinness said.
Scholes chimed in, echoing cautious optimism while referencing manager Amorim.
“I could see them beating City with Amorim.
They’re not quite at the peak they’ve been before, though.
Incredible standards to reach, but I still don’t think they’re firing on all cylinders.”
Defensive Worries Take Center Stage
The conversation soon shifted to United’s defence and the challenge posed by City’s goalscoring machine, Haaland. Butt highlighted the importance of returning senior defenders like Harry Maguire and De Ligt.
“I think if United get the injuries back, then we’ve got a chance.
But with the younger players, they’ve been brilliant — Heaven’s been unbelievable — but I wouldn’t like to see them against Haaland,” Butt said.
Scholes interjected with a comment about Martinez, which led to the infamous exchange:
“Butt continued: ‘Haaland would pick Martinez up and run with him.
You know when you see a dad at school running down the road with a little toddler.’”
Scholes laughed, adding: “He’d score then throw him in the net.”
Fans React With Outrage
Social media quickly lit up. Many fans criticized Butt and Scholes for seemingly mocking a player who has been pivotal in United’s backline.
One supporter wrote: “This is so bad coming from the so-called legends.
How do you mock a player like this, and even laugh about it? It’s a big shame.”
Others defended Martinez by pointing to his record against Haaland: in six encounters between them, Haaland has scored just once.
This includes a Champions League clash where Martinez’s Ajax defeated Dortmund 4-0 and five domestic meetings since both men moved to Manchester.
Martinez’s Proven Record Against Haaland
Martinez has consistently frustrated the Norwegian striker.
Of the six matches, Haaland has won only two, losing four.
His only goal came during City’s 6-3 victory over United in the treble-winning season.
Fans highlighted this dominance online. One post noted: “He played against Haaland in the Champions League and won 4-0 when Ajax
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