‘World’s best’ Manchester United star made Scholes look stupid

At Manchester United there was never a dull moment for that matter. That fact was highlighted in the aftermath of Saturday’s derby victory.

There was understandable elation, as always, after a big 2-0 win in Michael Carrick’s first game back in charge, and there is no doubt that supporters are already hooked after such an impressive performance.

But that positive atmosphere has been somewhat dampened by the growing rift between the former and current United stars, which has all come to a head in recent days.

Critics and heroes of the past have a right to be heard, but have things gone through the roof? Are respected voices almost actively trying to pressure and undermine the current crop rather than aid it?

After much debate and criticism in the post-Sir Alex Ferguson era, there is always a breaking point – and this week Paul Scholes and Lisandro Martinez may have reached a breaking point.

What was said on the Lisandro Martinez feud

Criticism is understandable given United’s ongoing predicament, but some may argue that the players should ignore the noise and focus on their own football.

That said, in an age where Fergie disciples dominate television, podcasts, and social media, the debate is constant and ensures that the current star has every right to want a popback.

Indeed, ahead of Saturday’s encounter, Scholes and Nicky Butt discussed concerns about Martinez being bullied by Erling Haaland, while jokingly suggesting the Norwegian could pick up and carry the diminutive centre-back, given their height difference.

The 5ft 10 centre-back was no doubt inspired by the story and put on a dominant performance over his centre-forward opponents, taking satisfaction in seeing Haaland withdraw in the closing stages after an unheralded performance.

Speaking after the match, Martinez reportedly came close to a meeting with Scholes over the Brit’s previous comments, but then hit back by saying:

Naturally, the story didn’t end there, with Scholes responding on Instagram and Scholes and Butt defending their comments on a podcast.

For all these jabs and jabs, the important point is that, as both men were passionate about, Martinez proved them wrong over the weekend. He’s not the only one to do that recently.

Manchester United star proved Scholes wrong this season

Like all supporters, journalists and pundits, Scholes and other figures from United’s past are entitled to be heard, especially those from the Fergie era, who know better than anyone what it takes to succeed at Old Trafford.

That said, it would be naive for these celebrities not to acknowledge that their comments and views have real weight, and that, for example, a punchy opinion could add unnecessary scrutiny or pressure to a new deal.

In Scholes’ case, the treble-winning prodigy appeared to be critical of the signing of Senne Ramens this summer, saying before the Belgian’s debut that he was “not a top goalkeeper” given his low price.

In his defense, the former England international spoke of his desire for the club to sign a player like Gigi Donnarumma from Manchester City on Saturday, but in any case he has since still been proven wrong by Lamence.

In fact, the 23-year-old has brought real calm to the goalkeeping department following his move from Royal Antwerp after the recent turmoil of Andre Onana and Altai Bajndir.

Lamence arrived late in the summer and had to wait until after the September international break to make his first appearance, before keeping a clean sheet in his debut against Sunderland at Old Trafford.

Since then, United have kept just two clean sheets, including one at the weekend, but combined with an early exit to Brighton & Hove Albion in the FA Cup, United have only lost two league games to the young keeper’s goals.

Lamence had a shaky moment after winning possession against the Seagulls, but has rarely faltered so far, but as reported by journalist Stephen Railstone, he highlighted why his former coach Hake Mircon hinted he would “become the best in the world” in his position.

United’s number 31, who according to SofaScore has never made a mistake leading to a shot or a goal in the Premier League, looks a lot like an elite stopper, and Scholes will have some words for him.

It’s still early days, of course, but this relatively unknown prospect has settled into life in Manchester seamlessly and forms part of what has proven a strong summer of business for INEOS.

As much as the “Class of ’92” and the like can all say what they want, the best response for the team of Martinez, Lamence and Carrick is to simply keep proving them wrong.