On 22 August 2022, in Erik ten Hag’s second competitive home game as United manager, the Argentinian centre-back turned in a combative yet classy display which underpinned the first victory of the Dutchman’s reign. A sweat-soaked shift punctuated by primal screams and fist-bumps set the tone for what supporters could come to expect of the newcomer.
In the first half alone against Jurgen Klopp’s side, Martinez became embroiled in two minor altercations, with Mohamed Salah and James Milner, produced a point-blank goal-line clearance to prevent a Bruno Fernandes own goal, and hurled himself into a last-ditch block from Salah’s goal-bound effort.