Lisandro Martinez delivered a perfect response on the pitch to his pre-match critics as Manchester United secured a stunning 2-0 victory over Manchester City at Old Trafford on Saturday.
Martinez answers his critics in style
The Argentine defender was the subject of pointed comments from United legends Paul Scholes and Nicky Butt in the build-up to the derby. They had suggested he would be physically dominated by City striker Erling Haaland.
Scholes claimed Haaland would 'target' Martinez, while Butt went further, saying the confrontation would be like 'a dad running with a little toddler'.
After playing a key role in a clean sheet victory where Haaland was kept quiet, Martinez dismissed the remarks. Speaking to Stadium Astro after the match, he said: '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.'
The World Cup winner emphasised the importance of the team blocking out external noise, adding: 'Imagine if we thought what the people said, it shows we have to be focused for the best of this club.'
Carrick's instant impact at Old Trafford
The win, sealed with second-half goals from Bryan Mbeumo and Patrick Dorgu, marked a dream start for interim manager Michael Carrick. Carrick had only been appointed on Tuesday, giving him just three days to prepare the squad.
Martinez was full of praise for the new boss's immediate influence. 'Three days… unbelievable,' the centre-back said. 'First of all, play with the ball, don’t be scared of the ball, having composure with the ball, play with confidence.'
He outlined the game plan that led to the famous win: 'We had to defend with our lives and when we play we had to play with confidence and I think we did it.' Martinez believed the result was fully deserved, noting United had a third goal ruled out for a marginal offside.
A statement victory for a new era
The result on January 18, 2026 provides a huge boost for United as they begin life under Carrick's temporary stewardship. The victory not only silences external critics but also sends a powerful message to their Premier League rivals.
For Martinez, the performance was a personal vindication. Statistical analysis highlighted that in his six previous encounters with Erling Haaland, the Norwegian superstar had failed to score in five of them. His commanding display at Old Trafford extended that impressive record.
The defender concluded by hailing Carrick and his staff, stating: 'What Carrick did with his staff was unbelievable, especially in a short time, that’s why I’m impressed about that.' The win sets a positive tone for the remainder of United's season.
