Newcastle United’s striker Alexander Isak names ONE Man United’s player as the most difficult opponent he has ever faced.
In the world of football, where elite talents frequently clash on some of the biggest stages, certain individual battles leave lasting marks on the careers of those involved. For Newcastle United’s dynamic striker Alexander Isak — known for his quick feet, sharp finishing, and ability to remain composed under pressure — it’s inevitable that he’s faced some of the toughest defenders the sport has to offer. From his days taking on powerful centre-backs in Spain’s La Liga to testing his skills against disciplined Premier League backlines, Isak is rarely outmatched. Yet, when asked to name the most difficult defender he’s ever faced, his answer caught many by surprise.
Despite having faced Arsenal’s much-praised William Saliba on several occasions, it wasn’t the Frenchman who topped Isak’s list. The player who made the strongest impression came from Manchester United. Isak revealed that Lisandro Martínez — the combative Argentine defender nicknamed “The Butcher of Amsterdam” during his Ajax days — stands out as the toughest opponent of his career so far.
Isak spoke candidly about why Martínez left such a significant mark on him. According to the Swedish striker, Martínez’s relentless nature is what separates him from the rest. “You might think you’ve gotten away from him, but in a split second, he’s back on you. His anticipation, aggression, and perfect timing make him nearly impossible to shake off,” Isak admitted. He acknowledged that while he’s gone up against defenders who are quick, strong, or technically sound, Martínez combines all those qualities with an unbreakable mindset, making every duel a grueling challenge.
Such high praise from a player of Isak’s caliber is no small matter. Since arriving at Newcastle, he’s built a reputation as one of the most dangerous forwards in English football, often leaving defenders behind with his pace and precision. But against Martínez, not only was he matched physically, but mentally too — something he rarely experiences. Isak noted that although Martínez doesn’t possess the towering height typically associated with central defenders, his low center of gravity, balance, and sharp reading of the game make him a nightmare to play against. It’s precisely these qualities that have made the Argentine an indispensable figure in Erik ten Hag’s Manchester United side.
Debates around Martínez’s height and physicality have long circulated among football fans and pundits, but testimonies like Isak’s serve as proof that there’s far more to defending than physical size. Football intelligence, timing, and sheer tenacity can often outweigh inches, and Martínez embodies that perfectly.
While Isak made it clear that Saliba remains one of the top defenders he’s faced — describing him as calm and composed — he reiterated that if he had to single out one player who forced him to fight for every inch, it would be Martínez. Every minute against him, he said, feels like an intense battle.
In a league stacked with world-class defenders, being called the toughest by one of Europe’s most exciting young strikers is a massive compliment. For Lisandro Martínez, it’s yet another reminder that though he may not tower above his opponents, he more than measures up where it truly matters. Isak’s words reflect not just respect for Martínez’s ability, but for the unwavering mentality that makes him such a vital presence in Manchester United’s defense.
This recognition adds another layer to the growing reputation of Martínez as a top-tier defender, and if he can stay fit and continue performing at his best, United’s backline could become one of the hardest to break down in the league. It also leaves fans eager to see the next chapter in what’s quickly becoming one of the Premier League’s most compelling personal battles.
