Lisandro Martinez has stood by his explosive remarks made after Manchester United's 2-0 defeat to Atletico Madrid on Tuesday, providing justification but failing to issue an apology. The Argentine defender maintains he wishes to spearhead United's return to the pinnacle of English and European football, with the club's current struggles leaving him 'hurt'.
Statement on Instagram
On Wednesday, Martinez issued a statement via his Instagram story, saying: "Following everything that has been said about my comments yesterday, I want to share some thoughts on what I said and how I feel. After the match, I spoke out of anger and frustration at not getting the result we all wanted."
He continued: "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. My words reflect how I feel and how much I want to see this club competing for the biggest honours. Those high standards are part of how I see football and the responsibility that comes with wearing this shirt."
Criticism of hierarchy
Martinez made headlines following his remarks after the defeat, during which he criticised the Old Trafford hierarchy over insufficient squad investment. While Michael Carrick's team secured Carlos Baleba, Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos, the defender felt obliged to emphasise the shortage of reinforcements and competition throughout the squad.
During heated post-match duties, he said: "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. Atletico have an amazing team and they deserved to win today. I expect more [investment]. 100%. I expect more from our technical director [Jason 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."
Pressure and future uncertainty
The defeat in the Spanish capital stretched United's winless streak to five across all competitions, while they prepare for a trip to Elland Road to face Leeds United in the Premier League on Sunday, currently sitting 13th in the table. Pressure is mounting on Carrick.
Reports suggest that Martinez could be sanctioned for his outburst. Meanwhile, Sky Sports have reported that the former Ajax defender's future is uncertain after taking aim at the Old Trafford supremos, with a teammate reported to have confronted him on the squad's flight home.
In his statement, Martinez added: "When I talk about wanting more, I'm talking about the ambition we must all have as part of this club. To keep growing, to become stronger and to have everything we need to compete at the highest level. These are standards we must all hold ourselves to, starting with me. 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. We need to demand even more of ourselves and work together to take Manchester United back to the top. I believe in my teammates, our manager and everyone working to help this club move forward. I'm convinced that the way forward is to keep working together, with ambition and commitment. 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 a day off as part of their routine recovery following matches, while Carrick is set to address reporters on Friday.
