BREAKING NEWS: “It Wasn’t Maguire” – Erling Haaland Names the One Man United Defender Who Truly Stopped Him
Erling Haaland has broken his silence following Manchester City’s frustrating defeat to Manchester United, and the Norwegian striker has delivered a surprising verdict that is already causing waves among fans and pundits. Contrary to popular opinion, Haaland insists it was not Harry Maguire who “caged” him during the match, instead naming another Manchester United defender as the player who truly prevented him from scoring.
After the final whistle, much of the post-match discussion centred on how United managed to keep one of the world’s most lethal forwards quiet. Social media quickly latched onto clips of Maguire’s physical battles with Haaland, with many claiming the England international had finally produced a dominant display against elite opposition. However, Haaland has now moved to correct that narrative.
“I hate the fact that people are saying Maguire caged me,” Haaland revealed. “He didn’t. He played well, yes, but it’s this particular Manchester United defender that really caged me yesterday — not Maguire.”
According to Haaland, the defender who caused him the most problems throughout the game was Lisandro Martínez. The Argentine centre-back, known for his aggression, anticipation, and fearlessness despite his height, was singled out by the City striker as the real difference-maker.
“Martínez was everywhere,” Haaland explained. “He was always half a step ahead, cutting passing lanes, stepping in front of me, and not allowing me to turn. That kind of defending makes a striker uncomfortable.”
Martínez’s performance was widely praised by analysts, but Haaland’s admission adds extra weight to the assessment. Time and again, the United defender read City’s build-up early, intercepting dangerous balls and forcing Haaland to drift away from central areas in search of space. Even when City managed to break through midfield, Martínez was quick to engage, often forcing Haaland into rushed decisions or backward passes.
While Maguire provided the physical presence, contesting aerial duels and offering cover, Haaland suggested it was Martínez’s intelligence and timing that truly disrupted his rhythm. “Maguire used his strength, which is normal,” Haaland added. “But Martínez didn’t give me a second to breathe. That’s what made the difference.”
The comments have sparked renewed appreciation for Martínez among Manchester United supporters, many of whom already regard him as the heartbeat of the defence. Since arriving at Old Trafford, the Argentine has earned a reputation for rising to big occasions, and this latest performance only strengthens his standing.
From United’s perspective, shutting out Haaland was a collective effort, but Martínez’s role was pivotal. United defended compactly, denied City space between the lines, and ensured Haaland rarely received the ball in positions where he could do damage. For a striker accustomed to bullying defences, the frustration was clear.
Haaland’s remarks also subtly highlight the tactical discipline United displayed on the night. Rather than relying solely on physicality, they combined structure, aggression, and intelligent positioning — elements that have sometimes been missing in previous big matches.
For Harry Maguire, Haaland’s comments may come as a mixed blessing. While the England defender still deserves credit for a solid performance, the narrative of him “caging” Haaland has now been publicly dismissed by the striker himself. Nonetheless, Maguire’s composure and leadership alongside Martínez contributed to a rare defensive shutout against City.
The reaction online has been swift. United fans have celebrated Haaland’s praise of Martínez as validation of his importance, while City supporters have acknowledged that their team struggled to find solutions. Pundits, meanwhile, have pointed to the comments as evidence that modern defending is as much about anticipation and positioning as it is about strength.
As Manchester United look to build momentum from the result, Martínez’s display — and Haaland’s honest assessment — may be remembered as one of the defining moments of the match. When one of the world’s best strikers names you as the defender who stopped him, it is perhaps the highest compliment of all.
Leave a Reply