Rio Ferdinand has come to the defence of Lisandro Martinez, accusing former Manchester United teammates Paul Scholes and Nicky Butt of making personal remarks in their criticism of the Argentina defender. The spat escalated after Martinez responded to comments made by the former United midfielders before the Manchester derby, in which United beat City 2-0.
Martinez was a key figure in the victory, helping to neutralise Erling Haaland and earning Michael Carrick his first win as interim manager at Old Trafford. United had been winless since their Boxing Day triumph over Newcastle, with struggles under Darren Fletcher following Ruben Amorim's sacking, leading to trepidation before the derby. However, Martinez's display helped silence the doubters, and he has since spoken out against his critics.
Ferdinand, speaking about the disagreement, said: "It's not beef, I think it's being made out to be beef. This week I think there has been some stuff that has probably been just over borderline, personal." He added that Martinez is "within his rights" to respond and clarified that the player is not seeking a physical confrontation but a face-to-face conversation. Ferdinand also revealed he has spoken to Martinez and described him as "a sponge" who is eager to restore United's standards.
Martinez did not mince his words in his own response, saying: "Honestly, he can say whatever he wants. I told him already, if he wants to say something to me, he can come to me wherever he wants. To my house, wherever. I don't care." He added that he respects those who want to help the club but noted that critics often avoid saying things in person.
Scholes responded in a lighthearted manner, posting on social media: "Someone’s had a good game, was really happy for you … tea, no sugar pls." Butt, however, was more forthright, insisting there is no personal vendetta. "He was brilliant on the day. Fair play to him," Butt said. "For me, we talk like lads having a conversation. It's tongue in cheek... If you're going to get so emotional about someone saying something about you, you shouldn't be at a football club, because he is going to get that for the rest of his career at Man United. There is no personal issue."
