Guardiola laughs off Lisandro Martinez debate before Man City vs Man United

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has addressed the debate surrounding Lisandro Martinez’s height ahead of the visit of Manchester United by praising the defender.

Some have claimed the Argentine’s 5ft 9in stature will be problematic against the red hot City striker Erling Haaland, who stands at 6ft 4in. Among those concerned by the difference in height is Jamie Carragher who told Martinez to “keep away” from Haaland during Sunday’s contest.

The City striker has netted 14 goals in nine Blues games and scored against Slovenia for Norway during the international break. Just two of his goals have been headers, but some are concerned that his physicality alone will be too much for the United defence to handle.

Martinez faced Haaland in last October’s 4-0 Ajax win over Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League, coming up against him in one-on-ones numerous times. On that occasion, he expertly prevented the 22-year-old from finding the net.

Speaking in Friday’s press conference ahead of the Manchester derby, Guardiola recognised the height difference between Haaland and Martinez but refused to expand further. Instead, he hailed the United summer signing for his attributes.

“Erling is taller, that's for sure. I like when people underestimate players for the size,” he said. “He can tell them I'm here and a good player.

“He's a fantastic player, aggressive, good build up. United paid this money, Erik [ten Hag] knows him. It's not the first time he's played against taller strikers, he handles it. [It’s] important to be intelligent, brave. The crosses, Erling is taller, we see what happens.”