Bellingham reveals respect for Martinez

Licha is known for his passion, grit and tough tackling, which United fans saw throughout his impressive debut season at Old Trafford, during which he also helped Argentina win the World Cup in Qatar.

A robust challenge from the centre-back left Bellingham in a heap shortly before half-time in the Tour 2023 game in Houston, which prompted a furious reaction on the field from the England midfielder.

But in a classy response, Bellingham - who scored the opening goal in Real Madrid’s 2-0 victory - explained his admiration for our no.6 when speaking to reporters in the mixed zone after the match at a sold-out NRG Stadium.

“It’s one of them things... the little tiff with Martinez. [He's a] brilliant player, and you know, I came in at half-time I was effing this, effing that! But when he came over and said ‘All the best’ when he came off, I really respected it,” said 20-year-old Bellingham.

“I understand that what goes on, on the pitch, stays on the pitch, and I saw him at the end of the game, wished him well. You know, I can respect that when two players are trying to win for their team and can come together and be respectful after the game.

“Like I said, he’s a great competitor, a great player. Just like me, I want to win. Sometimes it spills over but that’s part of the game and it was really respectful that we could have that moment after the game.”

Thursday (27 July) marks exactly one year to the day since Martinez joined the United family, after completing his move from Dutch giants Ajax. Look out for more content to celebrate the occasion on ManUtd.com and in the official United App.