Why Martinez highlighted Manchester United’s woes in Madrid meltdown

Key points

• Manchester United suffered a 2-0 defeat at Atletico Madrid in the Champions League on Tuesday.
• United have won just two of nine matches this season and sit 12th in the league with six points.
• Defender Lisandro Martinez criticised the board for not building a strong enough squad.

Manchester United's season hit a new low on Tuesday with a 2-0 Champions League defeat at Atletico Madrid. The loss was United's third in five winless matches and marked their worst start to a season in 40 years.

After finishing third last season under manager Michael Carrick, hopes of a title challenge or top-four finish now appear distant. United have won only two of nine matches in all competitions: a league win over Ipswich Town in August and a Champions League win over Sabah last month.

Poor results and league position

United lost to newly promoted Hull City on the opening day and were beaten by Manchester City in the derby. They also exited the League Cup in the third round to Brighton & Hove Albion and drew 1-1 with Fulham and Tottenham Hotspur, both in the relegation zone.

United sit 12th in the league with six points, their lowest tally after six games since 1986. A late equaliser at Fulham avoided a third straight defeat before the international break.

I expect more from our technical director [Jason Wilcox], 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 these kinds of nights.

— Lisandro Martinez

Martinez criticises board

Defender Lisandro Martinez blamed the board for a lack of support. "I expect more from our technical director [Jason Wilcox], 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 these kinds of nights," he said.

United spent 155 million pounds on midfielders Carlos Baleba, Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans, plus goalkeeper Karl Darlow. They did not buy an established left-back or striker.

Financial losses and fan unrest

United reported a net loss of 43 million pounds for the year to June 30, a seventh straight annual loss, despite record revenue of 677.6 million pounds. Debt remains over one billion pounds.

Co-owner Jim Ratcliffe has cut costs and raised ticket prices. His comments on immigration led the Manchester United Muslim Supporters' Club to call for his resignation. Fans also protested against the ownership before the Manchester City match.