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.
“I know what goes on on the pitch stays on the pitch. I saw him at the end of the game and wished him well. I can respect that when two players are trying to win for their team and can come together and be respectful after the game. He is a great competitor and a great player. Just like me, he wants to win. Sometimes it spills over.”
Bellingham, who was taken off at half-time, scored a fine opener, chipping André Onana on the United goalkeeper’s first appearance. This was his first Madrid goal since his initial €103m move from Borussia Dortmund.
“I look like I am enjoying it, I like to think,” Bellingham said. “So far, so good. I am enjoying playing with this team, learning from so many great players. I am definitely not getting carried away just yet. There are big challenges to come this season.
"I was confident coming here because I knew how good the players were. I know the qualities I can bring and I feel like I have slotted in. The role I am playing is enjoyable. I had a decent game against Milan and a decent one today. I just want to keep up the rhythm going into the season.
“There is a lot to aim for and rightly so. It is the biggest club with the best players. The expectations are high as they should be. It is about us going out there and matching that.”
No comments:
Post a Comment