Man United’s Martinez takes to social media to defend his criticism of club
Argentina defender Lisandro Martinez follows up criticism of his club with social media explanation of frustration.
Key points
- Lisandro Martinez defended his criticism of Manchester United's leadership after Tuesday's 2-0 Champions League defeat to Atletico Madrid.
- Martinez said his comments came from anger and frustration but did not apologise, and he called for greater squad investment.
- United's winless run reached five matches, increasing scrutiny on head coach Michael Carrick.
Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez has defended his criticism of the club's leadership following Tuesday's 2-0 Champions League defeat against Atletico Madrid. The Argentina international said his comments reflected his desire to see the team compete for major honours.
In a post-match statement, Martinez called for greater investment in the squad and questioned director of football Jason Wilcox's recruitment efforts. On Wednesday, he acknowledged that frustration had shaped his remarks but stopped short of apologising.
What Martinez said
Martinez wrote on Instagram that he spoke out of anger and frustration at not getting the result the team wanted. He said those who know him understand how he lives football, with passion, commitment and a huge desire to win, and that it hurts when things do not go their way, especially when representing a club with Manchester United's history and stature.
He reiterated that the players also had to take responsibility for improving performances. He said it is first and foremost the players who have to deliver, and he put himself at the front of that responsibility, adding that the team needs to demand more of itself and work together to take Manchester United back to the top.
After the match, I spoke out of anger and frustration at not getting the result we all wanted.
— Lisandro Martinez
Club response and next steps
The defeat extended United's winless run to five matches in all competitions. It added to the scrutiny surrounding head coach Michael Carrick as the club adjusts to life back in the Champions League after two seasons away.
United have not publicly responded to Martinez's remarks. ESPN and Sky Sports reported that Wilcox retained the backing of the club's leadership. Carrick is due to speak to the media on Friday in his news conference before Sunday's league match at Leeds United.
