Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has praised Manchester United’s Lisandro Martinez as one of the world’s top defenders.

Guardiola praised the United star following the Red Devils’ 2-0 FA Cup final victory at Wembley Stadium.

United needed only two goals in the first half from Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo to win the trophy and defeat the reigning Premier League winners.

Martinez, who was paired with Raphael Varane at the heart of the Red Devils’ backline, was one of the team’s strongest players throughout the game.

Martinez has suffered with various injuries this season, preventing him from establishing a steady run of appearances.

The World Cup champion has been a huge loss for the club, and his absence has been greatly felt.

Against City, he demonstrated why he is so highly valued. During his time on the field, the Argentine made five clearances and one intercept.

He completed 18 of 20 passes and won the one aerial battle he was needed to contest.

Unsurprisingly, his technical ability was on full display, and he was a valuable contributor to United’s efforts to move the ball and construct play from the back.

Another noteworthy part of Martinez’s game was his ability to contain the dangerous Erling Haaland. Except for the one occasion he struck the crossbar, the Norwegian striker scarcely had a chance throughout the game.

Guardiola spoke with media after the game and identified Martinez as a key player for United.

According to the Spanish coach, Lisandro Martínez is among the world’s top five center-backs.

“He made the difference on this game by playing passes through our defence.”