Manchester City star Jeremy Doku names Man United £34M sensation as the toughest defender he’s faced so far in his career.
Manchester City’s electrifying winger Jeremy Doku has made a striking admission about the most formidable defender he has encountered in his career so far. Surprisingly, it is not Arsenal’s William Saliba, nor Manchester United’s recent target Leny Yoro, but rather United’s own Lisandro Martínez. Doku, renowned for his explosive pace and dazzling footwork, has terrorized defenders since his arrival in England, yet he holds immense respect for the Argentine center-back.
Speaking in a recent interview, the 21-year-old Belgian attacker revealed that Martínez presents a unique challenge unlike any other. He described the Manchester United defender as not only physically imposing but also incredibly intelligent in his defensive approach. According to Doku, Martínez possesses an uncanny ability to anticipate his movements, making every duel a demanding test. “It feels like he knows exactly what I’m going to do before I even make a move. He’s always a step ahead, and that makes him the toughest opponent I’ve faced,” Doku remarked.
Martínez, who joined Manchester United in 2022, has swiftly become a key figure in Erik ten Hag’s defensive setup. His aggressive yet composed style of play has earned him widespread recognition, and Doku’s words further solidify his reputation as one of the league’s elite defenders. The City winger admitted that facing Martínez forces him to constantly refine his game, as there is no room for complacency when going up against him. “You can’t afford to relax even for a second. If you do, he’s right there, closing you down. It’s a battle every time,” Doku added.
Their encounters on the pitch have produced some gripping battles, with both players pushing each other to their limits. Doku acknowledged that playing against top defenders like Martínez is what fuels his drive to improve. He expressed his appreciation for such challenges, noting that elite competition is what shapes great players. “Facing someone of his caliber forces you to grow. He’s one of those defenders that make you better just by playing against them,” he said.
The mutual respect between elite players in the Premier League highlights the intense level of competition in England’s top flight. While rivalries between clubs remain fierce, moments like this offer a glimpse into the admiration that exists among professionals at the highest level. With both Doku and Martínez continuing to develop their games, their duels will be a compelling storyline in future Manchester derbies, keeping fans eagerly awaiting their next clash.
