We are not told that Saul’s anger toward David had any other source but his own jealousy and refusal to listen to the Lord (see 1 Samuel 13:13–14; 1 Samuel 15:25; 1 Samuel 18:6–9). By suggesting that Saul’s anger toward David came from his men was David's way of giving Saul space to back down from his actions and claim that he was deceived.1
9 And David said to Saul, “Why do you listen to the words of men who say, ‘Behold, David seeks your harm’?