Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez and Manchester City’s Kyle Walker almost came to blows as the Red Devils sealed a shock 2-1 win over their rivals in the FA Cup final on Saturday.
Erik ten Hag’s men were 2-0 up when Martinez was substituted with just over a quarter of an hour left in the match.
In a bid to waste time, Martinez decided to take the longest route possible to the touchline, leaving Walker incensed.
It led to a clash between the pair, forcing cup final referee Andrew Madley to separate them before the incident was defused:
Martinez makes FA Cup final impact
It was a big decision to start the Argentinian international, considering his lack of matches in recent months.
Martinez had only been named in the starting eleven once since late January due to injury problems but he made up for lost time by putting in a standout performance at Wembley.
The 26-year-old is known to be one of the leaders in the dressing room and his influence has been sorely missed at times this season when he has been forced to sit in the stands.
United’s win against City prompts further debate about ten Hag’s future
Erik ten Hag was in a combative mood after winning his second piece of silverware in two years as United boss. In the build-up to the final, there was intense speculation about his future at the club.
The majority of supporters would like the Dutchman to stay, and there are mitigating in the club’s poor league season. Injuries to key players (such as Martinez) have definitely played a part.
However, INEOS are looking at the long-term future. One cup final win is unlikely to sway their decision if they have already decided to dispense with ten Hag’s services and go in a different direction.
