Martinez publicly blames United technical director after Champions League exit to Atletico

Lisandro Martinez publicly criticised Manchester United’s technical director Jason Wilcox following the club’s Champions League defeat to Atletico Madrid, saying he had expected greater investment in the squad ahead of a campaign that demanded a stronger roster.

“Yeah, 100 per cent,” Martinez said when asked whether his comments about expecting more were directed at United’s recruitment. “I expected more from our technical director. I have to be honest, you know? And also, as players, we have to do more, but it’s also important when you make a strong squad to be ready for these kinds of nights.”

The Argentina international’s remarks were notably blunt at a moment when most within the club have chosen careful language. Manager Michael Carrick has remained diplomatic when pressed on United’s transfer policy, making Martinez’s two-footed challenge at the hierarchy all the more striking.

The comments arrive against a backdrop of widespread frustration among supporters and pundits over United’s lack of summer investment, but hearing that frustration voiced openly by a senior player from inside the dressing room marks a significant escalation.

Martinez’s future at Old Trafford has been the subject of speculation for several months, and his willingness to publicly challenge the club’s decision-makers may add fresh momentum to those exit rumours ahead of the summer transfer window.