“He is the God of Manchester” - Lisandro Martinez on why he wouldn’t dare ‘invade’ Sir Alex Ferguson’s space at Manchester United

Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez hailed former manager Sir Alex Ferguson, calling him the 'God of Manchester'. He spoke about the club's legendary manager and the influence he still holds at Old Trafford.

Sir Alex Ferguson managed Manchester United for 26 years during their most successful spell where they won two Champions Leagues and an unprecedented 13 league titles. He retired in 2013 as one of the most successful managers in world football, winning 38 trophies for the Red Devils.

In an interview with Argentinian outlet La Nacion during international duty, Martinez heaped praise on the legendary manager.

"I have met Ferguson three or four times. Ferguson is the God of Manchester," he said.

Despite retiring from management in 2013, Sir Alex remains an influential figure at the club. He attends nearly all of Manchester United's matches at Old Trafford as a "guest" of the club even after a change in ownership.

"He is a person who gave a lot to the club and who continues to give because he remains connected. Now, the new owners have also included him," Martinez added.

The defender said that while Ferguson is an intimidating figure, he is highly approachable and continues to provide support to the players.

"Ferguson congratulated me after winning the World Cup" - Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez

The 26-year-old defender also highlighted what makes Ferguson a highly revered figure at the club. Even after hanging up his boots, the former Manchester United manager takes time out to talk to the players and provide support.

Martinez recalled his talk with the Scotsman after Argentina won the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. He added that Ferguson also wished him after the club won the Carabao Cup and FA Cup.

"When [Argentina] won the World Cup, we spoke a little. He congratulated me. Later, also when we won the Carabao and the FA Cup," he revealed.

"He [Sir Alex] is a legend of world football and I respect people’s privacy. Of course I would like to be able to talk to him, actually listen to him, but I would not dare to invade his space," Martinez added.

The aggressive defender joined United from Ajax in 2022 and played 63 times for the club already. He struggled with injury issues last season, but has played in all three of the club's games so far this term.

He is currently in his home country for Argentina's World Cup qualifiers, featuring in the first match as they beat Chile 3-0. Argentina next face off against Colombia on Tuesday, September 10.