Martinez stands by Man United hierarchy attack, citing 'anger and frustration' after Atletico defeat

Lisandro Martinez has refused to fully retract his public attack on Manchester United’s technical director Jason Wilcox, issuing a statement on Wednesday that acknowledged he had spoken in ‘anger and frustration’ following Tuesday’s 2-0 Champions League defeat at Atletico Madrid — but stopped short of an apology.

In a remarkable post-match interview after the loss in Madrid, the Argentine centre-back criticised Wilcox for failing to strengthen the squad and accused the technical director of not backing manager Michael Carrick during the summer transfer window. The comments drew a swift rebuke from former United striker Wayne Rooney, who called them ‘disrespectful’ to Martinez’s team-mates.

In his follow-up statement, Martinez acknowledged the tone of his original remarks but stood firm on the substance. ‘After the match, I spoke out of anger and frustration at not getting the result we all wanted,’ he wrote. ‘Those who know me know how I live football, with passion, commitment and a huge desire to win.’

The 28-year-old, who is out of contract at Old Trafford next summer, framed his outburst as a product of ambition rather than disloyalty. ‘My words reflect how I feel and how much I want to see this club competing for the biggest honours,’ he said. ‘When I talk about wanting more, I’m talking about the ambition we must all have as part of this club.’

Martinez also turned the responsibility inward, adding: ‘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.’

United have not publicly commented on the original interview. Martinez was reportedly challenged over his remarks by at least one team-mate on the flight back from Madrid, though his views are said to be shared by some frustrated members of the squad.

Carrick did not address the situation in his post-match media duties on Tuesday but is expected to speak to the press on Friday, when he is likely to confirm whether any disciplinary action will be taken. Martinez is still expected to be available for United’s Premier League trip to Leeds on Sunday.