Manchester United’s combative centre-back Lisandro Martínez has been handed one of the most meaningful accolades a defender can receive — glowing praise from an opposing striker who experienced his dominance firsthand on the unforgiving stage of the Premier League.
In the aftermath of Newcastle United’s intense showdown with Manchester United, Magpies forward Woltemade delivered an honest and striking admission that quickly spread across football media and social platforms. His words offered rare insight into just how overwhelming Martínez was during the contest.
“I’ve gone up against elite defenders like William Saliba, Virgil van Dijk, and Wesley Fofana,” Woltemade revealed.
“But none of them dealt with me the way he did. This was the first time I’ve played against a defender who was so aggressive, so disciplined, and so relentless. He didn’t allow me a single moment of comfort.”
The defender Woltemade was describing was not Raphaël Varane, Diogo Dalot, or Harry Maguire.
It was Lisandro Martínez — the Argentine enforcer who has built a reputation for intensity, bravery, and uncompromising defending.
A DOMINANT DISPLAY UNDER THE OLD TRAFFORD LIGHTS
The meeting between Manchester United and Newcastle had been widely expected to be a physically demanding encounter, with both sides known for their aggression and pressing. However, few anticipated just how decisively Martínez would impose himself on the game.
From the very first whistle, Martínez set the tone. He played with a level of urgency and authority that left Newcastle’s attackers frustrated and isolated.
Whether stepping out of the defensive line to intercept passes or throwing himself into perfectly timed tackles, the United defender appeared to be everywhere at once.
Woltemade, who has enjoyed success against Premier League defenders throughout the season due to his physicality and movement, found himself completely nullified.
Time and again, his runs were cut out before they developed. His attempts to hold up the ball were instantly shut down. Every duel felt like a battle he was destined to lose.
“He knew what I was going to do before I did it,” Woltemade continued. “It honestly felt like he was inside my head the entire match.”
A DEFENSIVE MASTERCLASS BY THE NUMBERS
Martínez’s performance was not just impressive on the eye — the statistics backed it up. Over the course of the match, he delivered a defensive display that bordered on flawless:
• He allowed Newcastle’s striker zero shots on goal
• He completed five clean, well-timed tackles
• He won seven physical and aerial duels
• He maintained total concentration throughout the full match
Every action reflected sharp anticipation, fearless commitment, and complete control.
Beyond the numbers, what stood out most was Martínez’s mentality. His aggression was measured, his positioning intelligent, and his leadership evident in the way he organized the back line and pushed his teammates to stay compact.
A DEFENDER BUILT FOR BIG OCCASIONS
Praise from an opponent carries unique weight, especially in a league as demanding as the Premier League. Woltemade’s comments underline what Manchester United supporters have long believed — that Lisandro Martínez is not just a good defender, but a truly elite one when fully fit and focused.
On a night defined by physical duels and high stakes, Martínez delivered a performance that will be remembered as a benchmark for defensive excellence at Old Trafford.
