Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez has launched a scathing critique of the club’s executive leadership, citing inadequate reinforcements ahead of the current campaign. The outburst followed Tuesday’s 2-0 loss to Atletico Madrid in the Champions League, extending United’s winless streak to five matches.
Martinez, whose side has struggled to find consistency this season, pointed to last year’s third-place Premier League finish and subsequent return to Europe’s elite competition as evidence that the squad should have been strengthened further. “We did a fantastic season last season and now we expect more from the top, more players to compete because many teams bring many players as well,” Martinez said. “I expect more [investment]. 100%. I expect more from our technical director [Jason Wilcox].”
The Argentina international acknowledged that players must take responsibility for their performance but stressed that a competitive roster is essential for demanding fixtures. “Tonight it is easy to [blame] the coach, easy to say the players but also we have to see other areas,” he explained. His sentiments mirror concerns raised by various analysts and insiders regarding the summer transfer strategy.
Despite spending £155m on three midfielders, United failed to add striking depth for Benjamin Sesko or provide adequate cover at left-back for Luke Shaw. Minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe and chief executive Omar Berrarda were both present at the Metropolitano Stadium for the encounter.
Martinez also addressed the instability surrounding the managerial position. “You can’t keep changing, changing, changing the manager,” he stated. “What about other areas? I can’t say more. Last season we did everything, we created the base to create an amazing team.”
The comments recall similar friction between teammate Cristian Romero and Tottenham’s board during the previous season. Ironically, Romero now plays for Atletico Madrid, the team that defeated United on Tuesday. Martinez remains under contract with United for one more year and has not yet agreed to an extension.
Romero watching his old teammate tear into United’s board from the other side must be surreal. Football is full of irony.
Bold words from someone with one year left on his contract. Hope he realizes where his job security actually lies.
Martinez is absolutely right. We need a striker and serious depth. This squad cannot compete on three fronts.
Interesting how he blames recruitment but ignores the five-match winless streak. Ownership needs scrutiny, sure, but results matter most.
Finally, a player with the guts to speak truth. The board has failed us again.