Lisandro Martinez, Manchester United's Argentinian defender, has publicly challenged former club legends Paul Scholes and Nicky Butt following their critical comments ahead of last weekend's Manchester derby. The dispute escalated after Martinez's strong performance helped Manchester United secure a 2-0 victory over Manchester City, defying predictions from the pundits.

Before the highly anticipated premier league clash, Scholes and Butt had voiced doubts about Martinez's ability to handle Manchester City's formidable striker Erling Haaland. Butt suggested Haaland could "pick Martinez up and run," comparing their potential matchup at Old Trafford to "a father chasing a child after school." Scholes echoed this sentiment, adding that Haaland "would score and then throw his opponent into the net."

Lisandro Martinez (red shirt) challenges Erling Haaland during Manchester United's 2-0 victory over Manchester City in round 22 of the premier league at Old Trafford, Manchester, England on 17/1/2026. *AP*

However, the match on 17/1/2026 unfolded differently. Martinez delivered a solid performance, playing a key role in neutralizing Haaland, who was eventually substituted early for 18-year-old Divine Mukasa. The victory marked interim coach Michael Carrick's debut.

Following the game, Martinez directly addressed the former players' remarks, particularly Scholes. "Honestly, he can say whatever he wants," the Argentinian defender stated. "I've said it before, if he wants to say something to me, just come see me directly, anywhere. Come to my house if he wants. I don't care."

According to ESPN, Manchester United was displeased with the nature of Scholes and Butt's comments, viewing them as personal mockery rather than constructive professional analysis. The report noted that both former players had been present at Old Trafford just a week prior, alongside former coach Alex Ferguson, witnessing Manchester United's 1-2 FA Cup loss to Brighton, a match Martinez also participated in.

Martinez elaborated on his perspective: "I respect former players when they want to help the club. Anyone can talk on television, but when face to face, no one says anything to your face. So, I don't bother. I just focus on my performance, the team's, and give my all for the club until the last day."

Scholes, however, showed no signs of letting the verbal exchange subside. He hinted at accepting Martinez's invitation for a direct confrontation. On Instagram Story, the former English player posted a teasing status update, accompanied by a drink order: "Looks like someone had a good game. Really happy for you. Can I get a sugar-free tea?"

Both Scholes and Butt emerged from the Manchester United academy, part of the renowned "Class of ’92" generation under Alex Ferguson. Scholes played for Manchester United in two periods (1993-2011, 2012-2013), securing 11 premier league titles and two Champions League titles. Butt featured for Manchester United from 1992-2004, winning 6 premier league titles. After retiring, they frequently appear as football commentators and analysts on English media platforms.

Martinez was born in Gualeguay, Argentina on 18/1/1998, developing through Newell's Old Boys. He joined Ajax in summer 2019, was named the team's best player for the 2021-2022 season, and won three Dutch national championships. He then moved to Manchester United for 59 million USD from Ajax in summer 2022.

This is not the first time Martinez has publicly responded to Scholes. In 2/2025, Martinez also addressed Scholes's assertion that the Argentinian defender was not suitable for a premier league title-contending club.

Hong Duy (via ESPN, The Sun)