“I Have Faced William Saliba Many Times – But That Man United Star Was on Another Level”: Alexander Isak Reveals the Toughest Opponent of His Career
In a sport where the brightest talents often collide on the grandest stages, individual duels often define careers, reputations, and legacies. For Newcastle United’s electrifying forward Alexander Isak, a player known for his silky footwork, lethal finishing, and composure under pressure, it’s no surprise he has encountered some of the best defenders the game has to offer. From locking horns with towering centre-backs in La Liga to taking on tactical maestros in the Premier League, Isak has rarely been outclassed. But when the Swedish striker recently named the toughest opponent he has ever faced, eyebrows were raised.
And it wasn’t Arsenal’s highly-rated Frenchman William Saliba—whom Isak openly admitted to facing “many times”—that topped his list. No, it was a player from Manchester United who left the biggest impression.
“I’ve faced William Saliba many times and he’s a top defender, no doubt,” Isak told reporters. “But that particular Manchester United player—he’s the most difficult opponent I’ve ever faced in my whole career.”
So who is the Red Devil that left such a lasting mark on the Magpies’ talisman? It was none other than Lisandro Martínez—the Argentine defender affectionately nicknamed “The Butcher of Amsterdam” during his time at Ajax, and now a cornerstone of Erik ten Hag’s defense at Manchester United.
Isak went on to explain what made Martínez stand out so starkly in his memory.
“He’s just relentless,” Isak continued. “You think you’ve gotten past him, and then suddenly he’s right there again. His anticipation, aggression, and timing are unreal. He doesn’t give you a second to breathe. I’ve played against strong defenders, fast ones, technical ones—but Martínez brings all of that in one package, with a mentality that’s hard to break.”
Coming from a striker of Isak’s caliber, that’s no small praise. Since his arrival at St. James’ Park, the Swedish forward has become one of the most feared attackers in the Premier League. His ability to glide past defenders, operate in tight spaces, and strike clinically with either foot has left many defenders flat-footed. Yet, according to Isak, it was Martínez who not only matched him stride for stride but got inside his head.
“He doesn’t play like a tall centre-back, but he doesn’t have to. His low center of gravity and balance actually make him more dangerous in one-v-one situations. He reads the game in a way that’s rare these days. You can see why he’s such a crucial player for Manchester United.”
Fans have often debated the physical stature of Martínez, with critics pointing to his relatively short height for a centre-back. But compliments from attackers like Isak prove that football IQ and sheer tenacity can often outweigh physical attributes.
This revelation has only fueled more debate ahead of future clashes between Newcastle and Manchester United, with fans eagerly anticipating the next chapter in the budding rivalry between Isak and Martínez.
As for Saliba, Isak was quick to add that the Frenchman is “right up there” in terms of quality. “He’s very calm, very composed. It’s always a battle when we meet. But if I had to pick one who made me work the hardest, it’s Martínez. Every minute against him feels like a war.”
In a league brimming with world-class defenders, to be named the toughest by one of Europe’s most exciting young strikers is a badge of honor. And for Lisandro Martínez, it’s just another reminder that while he may not be the tallest, he certainly stands among the giants.