27 July 2023 , 04:45
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Erik ten Hag recently told his players they "don't play friendly games" - and it appears Lisandro Martinez has taken that literally.
The Argentinian is the definition of a full-blooded defender. He's never been afraid to go flying into challenges, and that hasn't changed in pre-season.
Martinez was involved in a bust-up with Martin Odegaard in their game against Arsenal in New Jersey last week as the Gunners skipper took exception to tackles on Eddie Nketiah and Bukayo Saka. Against Real Madrid in Houston, there was a repeat as Jude Bellingham this time clashed with the Red Devils star.
Martinez went into a tackle on Bellingham on the halfway line with full force, catching the England international late and getting nowhere near the ball. The Real Madrid star instantly jumped to his feet and shoved Martinez in fury.
As is always the case, the United man stood his ground. He confronted Bellingham in his second bust-up in as many games as new teammate Mason Mount again intervened to diffuse the situation.
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Fortunately, Bellingham emerged unscathed from the tackle. Martinez was shown a yellow card for his actions.
Bellingham had already made headlines earlier in the game as he scored a stunning opener - his first goal for Real Madrid - after just six minutes. The midfielder made a run from deep to get in behind Martinez and centre-back partner Raphael Varane.
Martinez was booked for his hard and late tackle on Bellingham (MUTV)He was picked out beautifully by Eduardo Camavinga and delivered a deft chip over new goalkeeper Andre Onana to open his account for the Spanish club. There were suspicions of offside but Bellingham did not care one bit as he wheeled away in celebration.
Bellingham was replaced at half-time as Real Madrid made eight changes. United then made their wholesale substitutions after an hour with Martinez making way.
With both players off, United were not able to make any inroads. Instead, Joselu scored an acrobatic late second for the Spaniards to condemn Ten Hag's side to another defeat.
HAVE YOUR SAY! How will Jude Bellingham fare for Real Madrid this season? Join the discussion in the comments section.
Bellingham reacted furiously to the hard tackle from Martinez as Mason Mount intervened (ESPN)Manchester United return to action against Borussia Dortmund at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas on Sunday (July 30). They have kept Jonny Evans and youngster Joe Hugill in the USA with their first-team squad ahead of that game.
They will then round off pre-season with games against French club Lens and Spanish side Athletic Club Bilbao at Old Trafford on August 5 and August 6.
Real Madrid host old rivals Barcelona on Saturday and Juventus next Wednesday to round off their trip to America before the new LaLiga season gets underway.