Martinez defends United outburst but stops short of apology after Atletico defeat

Lisandro Martinez has defended his public criticism of Manchester United’s recruitment but offered no apology, releasing a statement on Instagram on Thursday in the wake of his incendiary post-match comments after United’s 2-0 defeat to Atletico Madrid.

The Argentine centre-back had taken aim at the Old Trafford hierarchy for a perceived lack of investment in the squad following the loss in Madrid — United’s fifth game without a win across all competitions. His remarks drew widespread attention and prompted the clarification less than 24 hours later.

“After the match, I spoke out of anger and frustration at not getting the result we all wanted,” Martinez wrote. “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.”

Martinez acknowledged that the primary responsibility for results lies with the players, not the boardroom. “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 said. “We need to demand even more of ourselves and work together to take Manchester United back to the top.”

The statement also expressed confidence in manager Michael Carrick and the wider squad. “I believe in my teammates, our manager and everyone working to help this club move forward,” Martinez added. “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.”

United had welcomed Carlos Baleba, Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos to the squad in recent weeks, but Martinez’s original comments suggested he felt the depth of reinforcements fell short of what the club requires to challenge at the top of the Premier League and in Europe. The club currently sit 13th in the Premier League table and face a trip to Elland Road to face Leeds United on Sunday.