When FA Cup Final full-time whistle blew was an emotional moment. It was a relief for many, and one of tearful emotions for others. Pure joy.
After a season packed with frustration, coming off last season’s depressing FA Cup Final defeat, Manchester United bounced back with a perfectly executed victory.
Erik ten Hag felt the emotion just like anybody else. The Dutch manager made his way onto the pitch to embrace his players, and suddenly found himself being chased down by defender Lisandro Martinez.
Ten Hag tried to run, but just like many strikers have learned, including Erling Haaland, you can’t hide from The Butcher.
Martinez gives Ten Hag a lift
Erik ten Hag had no luck in evading Lisandro Martinez, who grabbed him and physically hoisted him into the air.
Martinez has got to know Ten Hag very well, signed by the Dutchman for Ajax, before he recruited him as one of his first Manchester United signings.
Ten Hag looked to enjoy the moment, which was Martinez’s way of paying his respect to the manager he felt deserved the spotlight.
Lisandro Martinez message to Manchester United fans
Lisandro Martinez has had a horrible injury-impacted season where he has barely been fit to play at all, enduring three separate spells out injured, with separate foot, knee, and calf injuries.
He made it back for the biggest game of all, starting the match, and featured for 73 minutes before Jonny Evans replaced him late on.
Martinez missed last season’s cup final due to injury. This time he helped make an important difference, with United only conceding this time after he had been substituted.
The centre-back was thrilled, sending a message on social media to convey his happiness after winning his second trophy for the club.
He wrote: “Yess!! FA Cup winnerssss!!! 🏆 This is United!! Proud of this team and so happy for our fans!!”