Martinez: No comparison to Merseyside derby
The Merseyside derby is without compare in world football, according to Everton manager Roberto Martinez.
![](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/GmE3VTsUbHdrSb2wAXv3yR.jpg)
The Spaniard is preparing his side to host Liverpool at Goodison Park on Saturday with both teams sitting in the Premier League's top six.
Having previously experienced the passion of the south Wales derby, Martinez believes the Merseyside clash is unlike any other.
"I've heard many stories and I know that the derby on Merseyside is quite unique and special, so I don't think it should be compared to any other in world football," he said.
"It is a massive game. First and foremost it is a glamorous game.
"It is one of those games that is followed worldwide and the significance, the history, the passion is all reflected in the game, but I think this one is even more important.
"It's got the footballing significance because both teams are in the top six, both teams had a very strong start to the season and then you're looking at the derby itself as an important game.
"All in all, as good as a game of football can get."
Get FourFourTwo Newsletter
The best features, fun and footballing quizzes, straight to your inbox every week.
Martinez was linked with the manager's job at Liverpool prior to Brendan Rodgers' appointment, but revealed he had no regrets over not moving to Anfield.
"There is no time to look back," he continued. "The reality is that I'm so proud and honoured to be the manager of Everton and really excited to experience the Merseyside derby.
"Things happen for a reason. Everything is meant to happen.
"All that matters is what happens and what the future brings."
Everton are yet to be beaten at home in 2013 and have lost just one of their 11 league fixtures this season.
![LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - NOVEMBER 5: Arne Slot Manager of Liverpool congratulates Mohamed Salah of Liverpool after the 4-0 victory during the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 League Phase MD4 match between Liverpool FC and Bayer 04 Leverkusen at Anfield on November 5, 2024 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Crystal Pix/MB Media/Getty Images)](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/q3ie7X2vDDiU7X6C9HVRK7-840-80.jpg)
‘The pure simplicity of the way Slot has managed the squad is probably the biggest thing I could say about him. It’s not broken, so let’s get on with it’: Liverpool legend full of admiration for Jurgen Klopp's successor at Anfield
![CARDIFF, UNITED KINGDOM - JUNE 02: Wales captain Ryan Giggs shakes the hand of manager John Toshack after being substituted on his last International appearance for his country during the Euro 2008 Group D Qualifying Match between Wales and Czech Republic at the Millennium Stadium on June 2, 2007 in Cardiff, Wales. Photo by (Stu Forster/Getty Images)](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/ooQ9oNmgvfUUG8TBUhn6BK-840-80.jpg)
‘I trained at Spurs and thought they’d give me a chance. But I received a letter thanking me but saying they didn’t think I was good enough – I was gutted’: How Tottenham missed out on signing Wales legend John Toshack