“Everyone knows Man United has the best defensive dou in the world but this particular ONE, I’ve seen such in Europe for the past 20-years… I’m scared for Haaland”: Pep Gaurdiorla says Man United has signed a defender who’s more aggressive and dangerous than Pepe and Ramos combined
Pep Guardiola has hailed Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez, claiming he “made the difference” in the FA Cup final.
United beat Manchester City 2-1 to lift the trophy thanks to goals from Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo. However, it was Martinez who Guardiola singled out for praise after the game.
“Lisandro Martinez is top five centre-backs in the world,” Guardiola said. “He made the difference on this game by playing passes through our defence.”
It is not the first time Guardiola has hailed Martinez, having previously defended him back in 2022 when concerns were raised about the Argentine’s height. When asked about the prospect of the 5ft 9in Martinez battling the 6ft 4in Erling Haaland, Guardiola quickly dismissed the argument.
“Erling is taller, that’s for sure,” he said. “I like when people underestimate players for the size. He can tell them I’m here and a good player. He’s a fantastic player, aggressive, good build up.
“United paid this money, Erik [ten Hag] knows him. It’s not the first time he’s played against taller strikers, he handles it. [It’s] important to be intelligent, brave. The crosses, Erling is taller, we see what happens.”
