Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez has fired back at club legend Paul Scholes following comments that mocked the Argentine’s height ahead of the Manchester derby, insisting that criticism does not distract him from his focus on the pitch.
In the build-up to Saturday’s clash against Manchester City, Scholes and fellow former United midfielder Nicky Butt questioned Martinez’s ability to cope with City striker Erling Haaland. Butt jokingly suggested Haaland would overpower Martinez with ease, while Scholes quipped that the Norwegian would “score and then throw him in the net.”
However, Martinez had the last laugh on the field. In their first match under interim manager Michael Carrick, United delivered a disciplined performance to secure a 2-0 victory, limiting City to just one shot on target. Martinez played a key role in keeping Haaland quiet throughout the encounter.
Responding to Scholes’ remarks after the match, Martinez was defiant. He said the former midfielder was free to express his opinions but made it clear that such comments held little weight for him. Martinez added that people often speak freely on television but rarely do so face-to-face, stressing that his priority remains his performance and commitment to the club.
The Argentine defender also dismissed suggestions that criticism from former players motivates him, explaining that his true motivation comes from his family rather than external commentary.
Scholes, however, appeared unfazed by Martinez’s reaction. Posting on Instagram, the Old Trafford legend congratulated the defender on his performance with a tongue-in-cheek message, suggesting a friendly “tea, no sugar.”
The derby win marked United’s first victory since Boxing Day and offered a timely lift following the recent sacking of manager Ruben Amorim. Martinez’s post-match comments hinted at a clear contrast between Amorim and interim boss Michael Carrick, praising Carrick’s mentality, understanding of the club, and immediate impact.
Martinez described Carrick as someone who truly understands what Manchester United represents, citing his long playing career and trophy-laden history at Old Trafford. He suggested that Carrick’s presence helped galvanise the squad at a critical moment.
With United now sitting fifth in the Premier League, just one point behind Liverpool, hopes of Champions League qualification remain alive. Martinez believes Carrick’s leadership and connection to the club could play a decisive role in turning around what has been a turbulent campaign.
As United look to build on their derby success, Martinez’s message is clear: criticism will come and go, but his focus remains firmly on delivering performances for the club until his final day in a United shirt.
