Lisandro Martinez was reportedly confronted by a Manchester United team-mate on the flight home from Madrid, after the defender launched a scathing attack on the club's hierarchy in a post-match interview. The incident is said to have unfolded after the Argentinian's explosive remarks following United's 2-0 defeat to Atletico Madrid on Tuesday evening.
Martinez lambasted the Old Trafford board for failing to recruit sufficient players during the summer transfer window, claiming this left their squad woefully unprepared for the Champions League. The 28-year-old even targeted director of football Jason Wilcox, declaring that he 'expects more' from him. While a significant number of United supporters back Martinez's stance, at least one team-mate disagreed with his decision to air his grievances publicly.
Confrontation on the flight home
Sky Sports report that one player - who remains unnamed - confronted the Argentine about his remarks as the squad boarded the aircraft for their return journey to Manchester. The club's board also haven't taken kindly to his interview. Martinez is likely to be hit with a fine and it remains to be seen whether he'll be dropped from the squad ahead of Sunday's game away to Leeds.
Meanwhile, his long-term prospects at Old Trafford remain in doubt. Martinez's deal expires at the end of this campaign, and while United possess the option to activate a one-year extension, club officials are actively pursuing a centre-back signing and seeking methods to slash their astronomical wage bill.
Martinez's future in doubt
It's reported that the former Ajax star has been eager to depart for some time, with hopes of securing a switch to, ironically, Atletico during the summer window. United splashed out £57million for Martinez in 2022 and he's claimed two pieces of silverware, the FA Cup and League Cup, both under previous boss Erik ten Hag.
Carrick revealed following the loss in Spain that he hadn't watched the complete interview, though he'll undoubtedly face questions about it later this week before United's journey to Elland Road.
Martinez's post-match remarks
Martinez told Prime Video Sport: "Really poor. Really poor. I have to control myself a lot but sometimes is a reflection of the mirror of how is our club at the moment. 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. Today, Atletico have an amazing team and they deserve to win today. I expect more [investment]. 100 per cent. I expect more from our technical director [Wilcox]. I have to be honest, as players we have to do more but it is also important when you make a strong squad to be ready for this kind of night."
He added: "In general. Last season we did everything, we created the base to create an amazing team. It is annoying, disappointing coming here and I am not seeing my team trying to get an amazing result here. It's disappointing. You can't keep changing, changing, changing the manager. What about other areas? I can't say more. Tonight it is easy to say the coach, easy to say the players but also we have to see other areas."
