Manchester City’s young sensation, Jeremy Doku, has made a striking statement that has grabbed the attention of football fans worldwide. The Belgian winger, known for his electrifying pace and exceptional dribbling skills, has revealed that the toughest defender he has ever faced is none other than Manchester United’s Lisandro Martinez. While many might have expected him to name someone like Harry Maguire or even highly-rated young talents such as Leny Yoro, Doku instead singled out the Argentine international for his impressive defensive abilities.
In a recent interview, the 21-year-old City star openly expressed his admiration for Martinez, emphasizing the defender’s strength, intelligence, and relentless work ethic. Doku, who has already faced some of the best defenders in Europe, stated that Martinez stands out because of his ability to anticipate his opponent’s moves. “Whenever I come up against Lisandro, I know it’s going to be a difficult battle. He’s incredibly strong, but it’s not just about physicality with him. His reading of the game is extraordinary, and it feels like he always knows what I’m going to do before I even make my move,” Doku remarked.
Martinez, who joined Manchester United in the summer of 2022, has quickly become an essential component of Erik ten Hag’s defensive setup. Unlike traditional defenders who primarily rely on their physicality, Martinez blends aggression with tactical awareness and composure, making him one of the most formidable center-backs in the Premier League. His ability to stay one step ahead of his opponents has made life extremely difficult for wingers like Doku, who thrive on beating defenders in one-on-one situations.
Doku admitted that playing against Martinez forces him to push his limits, as there is no room for complacency when facing such a skilled defender. “You can’t afford to switch off for even a second against him. The moment you do, he’s right there, closing you down, making it nearly impossible to get past him. He demands the best out of you, and that’s something I respect a lot,” Doku added.
The clashes between the two have resulted in thrilling encounters, with both players showcasing their immense talent on the pitch. Doku acknowledged that competing against Martinez is not just a challenge but also an opportunity to grow as a player. “As a footballer, you always want to test yourself against the best. It’s these battles that help you improve, and facing Lisandro has definitely made me a better player,” he concluded.
Doku’s recognition of Martinez’s defensive prowess speaks volumes about the Argentine’s impact in the Premier League. Despite being shorter than most center-backs, Martinez compensates with his sharp footballing mind, relentless energy, and fearless approach to defending. His performances continue to earn him praise from opponents and teammates alike, reinforcing his reputation as one of the toughest defenders in modern football.
