United outburst came from anger, frustration but stands by ambition — Martínez
Lisandro Martínez
Abdullateef Fowewe
Manchester United defender Lisandro Martínez has clarified his explosive post-match criticism of the club’s hierarchy, saying he spoke “out of anger and frustration” after the 2-0 Champions League defeat to Atlético Madrid, but stopping short of an apology.
In a statement posted on Instagram, the Argentina international said his comments reflected his determination to see United compete for major trophies rather than a personal attack on anyone at the club.
“After the match, I spoke out of anger and frustration at not getting the result we all wanted,” Martínez wrote.
“Those who know me know how I live football, with passion, commitment and a huge desire to win.”
He added that it “hurts” when results go against United, “especially when representing a club with the history and stature of Manchester United.”
Martínez also framed his earlier remarks as a call for collective ambition stressing, “When I talk about wanting more, I’m talking about the ambition we must all have as part of this club.”
The 28-year-old said players must take primary responsibility for improving results, writing, “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.”
He reaffirmed his support for the dressing room and coaching staff, saying, “I believe in my teammates, our manager and everyone working to help this club move forward.”
Martínez ended by restating his objective since joining United, “to win, to compete at the highest level and to give everything I have for this badge.”
Martínez’s clarification followed a blunt interview after United’s Champions League group-stage loss at Atlético Madrid on Tuesday, when he criticised the club for not strengthening the squad sufficiently after qualifying for the competition.
He had said United needed “more players to compete” and that he expected more from technical director Jason Wilcox, arguing that the club could not rely on the previous season’s achievements.
Reports later said United officials were assessing the comments before deciding whether any disciplinary action was necessary.
The statement has intensified debate among supporters over player accountability, squad investment and United’s direction.
Dailyeconomy observed that many fans welcomed Martínez’s honesty and perceived commitment, viewing his remarks as an expression of the frustration felt across the fanbase after a difficult run of results.
However, the club has yet to respond to the latest statement, leaving open questions over whether the defender’s comments will prompt an internal discussion or disciplinary review.
