Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez was once made a top transfer priority by Mikel Arteta and Arsenal.
The first goal of Manchester United’s 3-2 win over Arsenal on Sunday afternoon was unfortunately an own-goal scored by defender Lisandro Martinez.
But Martinez showed elite mentality to stay in the game, bounce back and put on a brilliant performance alongside centre-back partner Harry Maguire.
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WHAT A WIN!
Manchester United celebrate goal against Arsenal.
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Even after his mistake, Lisandro Martinez continued to demand the ball and he made more line-breaking passes than anyone else on the pitch at The Emirates.
After the full-time whistle blew, Martinez celebrated the win with his family in the stands. Ironically, he almost ended up playing for the Gunners back in 2022.
Arsenal v Manchester United - Premier League
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Lisandro Martinez rejected Arsenal move in 2022
United paid £48m to sign Martinez from Ajax back in 2022, with the Argentine defender reunited with Erik ten Hag at the time.
But it was no secret that Arsenal had also bid for Martinez, and according to The Express, he was Arteta’s top defensive target.
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During his first interview at United, Martinez was asked why he chose a move to Old Trafford instead of anywhere else. His answer was clear.
“Well, Manchester United, I think, is one of the best clubs in the world,” Martinez said.
“Every player wants to play here. The opportunity was there, so I took it and now I’m really happy to be here.”
Matheus Cunha had the same mentality as Lisandro Martinez
In the latest summer transfer window, Arsenal showed interest in Matheus Cunha, but the Brazilian only had one destination in mind.
United signed Cunha for £62.5 million, with the Brazilian playmaker openly turning down clubs in the Champions League to pursue his dream of playing for the Red Devils.
Matheus Cunha had Man Utd dancing at The Emirates again 🕺
Was Cunha's goal the best he has scored for Man Utd?
Cunha
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READ MORE: ‘Impressed’… Wayne Rooney’s instant verdict on Matheus Cunha and one ‘unbelievable’ Man Utd ace after Arsenal result
To rub salt in Arsenal’s wounds, Cunha scored a stunning winner at The Emirates, danced on their pitch and then kissed the United badge.
When United come calling, there are very few players who say no. Martinez and Cunha both rejected Arsenal in favour of a move to Manchester, and they justified their decisions through Sunday’s performance and result.
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