Lisandro Martinez has defended his outburst after Manchester United’s 2-0 defeat to Atletico Madrid, offering an explanation but stopping short of an apology. The Argentinian says he wants to help lead United back to the summit of English and European football and that the club’s current plight has left him “hurt”.
The defender made headlines after Tuesday’s loss in the Spanish capital, when he criticised the Old Trafford hierarchy over a lack of investment in the squad. United had welcomed Carlos Baleba, Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos, but Martinez felt compelled to highlight the shortage of reinforcements and competition across the pitch.
The defeat extended United’s run without a win to five matches in all competitions. They now travel to Elland Road to face Leeds United in the Premier League on Sunday, sitting 13th in the table.
Martinez Explains His Comments
On Wednesday, Martinez posted a statement on his Instagram story. “Following everything that has been said about my comments yesterday, I want to share some thoughts on what I said and how I feel,” he wrote.
“After the match, I spoke out of anger and frustration at not getting the result we all wanted. Those who know me know how I live football, with passion, commitment and a huge desire to win. And when things don’t go our way, it hurts, especially when representing a club with the history and stature of Manchester United.”
He added that his words reflected how much he wants to see the club competing for the biggest honours. “When I talk about wanting more, I’m talking about the ambition we must all have as part of this club,” he said. “I know that, first and foremost, it’s us, the players, who have to deliver, and I put myself at the front of that responsibility.”
Martinez concluded: “I believe in my teammates, our manager and everyone working to help this club move forward. My goal has been the same since day one, to win, to compete at the highest level and to give everything I have for this badge.”
What He Said After the Match
During heated post-match duties, Martinez did not hold back. “We did a fantastic season last season and now we expect more from the top, more players to compete because many teams bring many players as well,” he said.
He praised the opposition before turning his attention to the club’s structure. “Atletico have an amazing team and they deserved to win today. I expect more [investment]. 100%. I expect more from our technical director [Jason Wilcox].”
He also acknowledged the players’ role. “I have to be honest, as players we have to do more but it is also important when you make a strong squad to be ready for this kind of night.” He then questioned where the blame should fall. “Tonight it is easy to [blame] the coach, easy to say the players but also we have to see other areas. You can’t keep changing, changing, changing the manager. What about other areas? I can’t say more.”
Martinez finished by pointing to the previous campaign. “Last season we did everything, we created the base to create an amazing team.”
Possible Consequences
Reports suggest Martinez could be sanctioned for his outburst. Sky Sports have reported that the former Ajax defender’s future is uncertain after he criticised the Old Trafford hierarchy, and that a teammate confronted him on the squad’s flight home.
United enjoyed a day off as part of their routine recovery after matches. Head coach Michael Carrick is set to address reporters on Friday.