“He made the difference”: Pep Guardiola says Lisandro Martinez is among “top five centre-backs in the world” | OneFootball

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has hailed Manchester United’s Lisandro Martinez as one of the best defenders in world football.

Guardiola lauded the United star after the Red Devils ran out 2-0 victors at Wembley in the FA Cup final.

First-half goals from Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo were all United needed to secure silverware and sink the reigning Premier League champions.

One of the team’s best performers during the game was Martinez, who was paired next to Raphael Varane at the heart of the Red Devils’ backline.

Martinez has struggled this season with multiple injuries that have kept him from nailing down a consistent run of appearances.

The World Cup winner has been a big miss for the club and his absence was sorely felt.

Against City, he showed why he’s so highly rated. During the time he was on the pitch, the Argentine made five clearances and one interception.

He successfully delivered 18 of the 20 passes he attempted and won the one aerial duel he was required to contest.

Unsurprisingly, his technical ability was on full display and he was a big asset to United in their efforts to advance the ball and build play from the back.

Another impressive aspect of Martinez’s game was how well he locked down the dangerous Erling Haaland. The Norwegian striker barely had a sniff all match bar the one time he hit the woodwork.

After the final whistle, Guardiola spoke to reporters and pinpointed Martinez as someone who made the difference for United.

The Spanish coach said, “Lisandro Martínez is top 5 centre-backs in the world.”

“He made the difference on this game by playing passes through our defence.”

Martinez was forced off in the 73rd minute with what looked like another injury. Hopefully, it’s nothing serious and he returns to action as soon as possible.

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