Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez has revealed the rousing message interim boss Michael Carrick delivered to galvanise his side ahead of their commanding 2-0 win over Manchester City. The Red Devils headed into the clash desperately searching for their maiden victory of 2026, having endured draws with Burnley and Leeds, whilst suffering an early FA Cup exit at the hands of Brighton.

United produced a commanding display at Old Trafford, with Bryan Mbeumo and Patrick Dorgu finding the net to claim all three points in a contest that somewhat flattered the away side. Martinez had previously been the subject of criticism from United icons Paul Scholes and Nicky Butt ahead of kick-off.

During their podcast, the duo questioned whether the ex-Ajax defender possessed the physical attributes to cope with City's towering striker, Erling Haaland, given the considerable height disparity between the pair.

Yet Martinez proved his doubters wrong, delivering a rock-solid performance at the heart of Carrick's backline and effectively nullifying the Norwegian's attacking menace.

In a post-match interview with Sky Sports, Martinez discussed Carrick's pre-match preparations and shared the 44-year-old's words from the dressing room before proceedings commenced.

He explained: "One important thing Michael Carrick said was: use the energy of the people. Today I think we did it. When we are together it is impossible to lose at home.

"We know how we've suffered during the season but the only way is showing face and showing who we are."

Rather than discussing his own individual performance, Martinez chose to praise his teammates for their unity and the headline-grabbing performance they delivered. The 27-year-old added: "This was the best moment to do it.

"The team, not just the players on the pitch, but also on the bench, everyone was part of that. When you play against this kind of players, the team defends. Not just one or two players. Today we defended so well.

"We were so compact all the time, and then you have the confidence to go to the duels. You feel today a different energy in the eyes of the players.

"Today the team won, that's the most important thing for me. Unbelievable. Being here with the fans, with the team, we really know how we suffer during the season. But the only way is putting the face here and showing here who we are. Today is the best moment to do it. Not just the players on the pitch, the staff, everyone was part of that."