Manchester United’s relationship with the famed Class of ’92 embodies football’s intricate dynamics: profound admiration intertwined with constructive—or sometimes pointed—criticism. The group—Ryan Giggs, Paul Scholes, David Beckham, Nicky Butt, Gary Neville, and Phil Neville—formed the heartbeat of Sir Alex Ferguson’s second golden era. Their recent exchange with Lisandro Martinez, following a 2-0 derby win over Manchester City in January 2026, illuminated this complexity: passion for the club’s success driving opinions that players occasionally interpret as distant jibes.
The Martinez-Scholes-Butt Exchange
Pre-derby, Scholes and Butt bantered on The Good, The Bad & The Football podcast, predicting Haaland’s physical edge over the 5ft 9in Martinez. Butt quipped Haaland might “pick him up and run,” Scholes suggesting he’d “throw him in the net.”
Martinez responded superbly on pitch, marshalling Haaland effectively in United’s victory. Post-match, he addressed the commentary: “They can say whatever… but face-to-face, no-one says anything.” He invited direct dialogue, prioritising performance over media noise.
Scholes replied supportively on Instagram: praising the game and jokingly requesting “tea, no sugar.” Butt urged perspective but lauded the display.
This interaction captured nuance: ex-players’ high expectations meeting current squad’s sensitivity.
Class of ’92 Contributions Table
| Member | Appearances | Key Achievements | Post-Playing Role Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ryan Giggs | 963 | Most decorated British player | Interim manager 2014; assistant to Van Gaal |
| Paul Scholes | 718 | Midfield maestro; Treble cornerstone | Pundit; youth coach |
| David Beckham | 394 | Global icon; crossing precision | Co-owner Inter Miami; ambassador |
| Nicky Butt | 387 | Tenacious midfielder | Head of academy 2016-2021; pundit |
| Gary Neville | 602 | Reliable full-back; captain | Pundit; co-owner Salford City; UA92 |
| Phil Neville | 386 | Versatile utility | England Women manager; coach |
Combined: over 3,400 appearances, foundation for 1999 Treble and sustained dominance.
Historical Tensions and Enduring Ties
Frictions emerged occasionally. United opposed Hotel Football’s construction near Old Trafford. Youth development philosophies diverged—Butt passionate about winning focus.
Media roles amplify opinions: Neville’s commentary, Scholes/Butt podcasts, Giggs’ insights. Criticism—managers, tactics—stems from love for United’s “DNA.”
Yet collaboration persists: UA92 campus at Old Trafford, charity events. Roche affirmed: “Class of ’92 are family.”
Current United Landscape
The 2025-26 season tests patience: mid-table, early cup exits, managerial change (Carrick interim post-Amorim). Derby win offered respite, with Martinez exemplifying fight.
Class of ’92 voices—frustrated yet supportive—reflect shared desire for revival. Their legacy demands excellence; current players feel that weight.
Balancing Critique and Support
Ex-players’ platform privileges opinion-sharing. Martinez’s retort highlighted perceived disconnect: TV boldness versus personal restraint.
Scholes’ humorous reply bridged gap, reminding all of mutual respect. Butt’s academy passion shows ongoing investment.
United’s story intertwines past glory with present rebuild. Class of ’92 critiques aim to inspire, not undermine.
This relationship—complex, passionate—fuels the club’s identity. As Carrick steers forward, voices from ’92 echo: standards non-negotiable.
Manchester United thrives on such history. The bond, though tested, endures—united in pursuit of renewed success.
