Nicky Butt has launched a scathing attack on Lisandro Martinez, telling the Manchester United defender to "f***ing grow up" following his confrontational response to pundit criticism.
The former United midfielder, who made 387 appearances for the club, delivered a blunt assessment of the Argentine centre-back, insisting he "shouldn't be at a big club" if media scrutiny proves too difficult to handle.
The war of words erupted after Martinez challenged his critics to confront him directly, even inviting them to his home, following United's 2-0 win over Manchester City on Saturday.
Butt dismissed Martinez's reaction as overly "emotional" and inappropriate for a player at an elite club.
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The spat originated from comments made by Butt and fellow pundit Paul Scholes on the Good, the Bad and the Football podcast ahead of the derby clash.
Butt had quipped that Manchester City striker Erling Haaland would "pick him up and run with him", while Scholes suggested the Norwegian would "score then throw him in the net".
Their predictions proved wide of the mark as United secured an impressive 2-0 victory over Pep Guardiola's side in what was Michael Carrick's first match as manager.
Nicky Butt has launched a scathing attack on Lisandro Martinez, telling the Manchester United defender to "f***ing grow up" following his confrontational response to pundit criticism
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Martinez was questioned about the pundits' remarks following the win, prompting his defiant response.
Butt maintained that his original remarks were never intended as serious analysis, describing them as "tongue and cheek" rather than formal commentary.
"We're not on Sky doing commentary on a game," he explained on the podcast. "It's quite obvious Haaland's not going to pick you up and run with him. It's f***ing obvious that. It's figure of speech."
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Nicky Butt insists Lisandro Martinez needs to toughen up after his criticism of the Manchester United star
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The 387-cap United veteran insisted there was no personal animosity towards Martinez but warned the defender that criticism comes with the territory at Old Trafford.
"You're going to get your ups, you're going to get your downs," Butt added, recalling the abuse he received during his own playing days at United and Newcastle.
Martinez responded by stating he respects former players who genuinely want to help the club, but noted that critics rarely voice their opinions directly.
"Everyone can talk on the television, but when you see here face to face, no one says anything in your face," the defender told reporters.
The 28-year-old insisted his motivation comes solely from his family, adding: "I don't really care what they say. I just put the focus on my performance."
Scholes remained unconvinced despite the derby victory, stating: "I'm still not sure that you can win a league with him."
Lisandro Martinez was outstanding in Manchester United's win over Manchester City on Saturday | GETTYMartinez has made five starts since returning from a long-term ACL injury in November, having joined United from Ajax for £56m in 2022.
The Red Devils have struggled this term but Saturday's win over City bodes well as they plan for a new era.
Next up for the fallen giants is a mouthwatering showdown with Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday (4.30pm).
Before that, the Gunners will lock horns with Inter Milan in the Champions League tonight (8pm).