Lisandro Martinez has defended his explosive criticism of Manchester United's hierarchy, admitting his frustration came from a desire to see the team return to the top of English and European football.
The Argentina international hit the headlines after taking aim at United's recruitment following Tuesday's 2-0 defeat to Atletico Madrid, questioning the level of investment in the squad and calling for more competition across the pitch.
The defeat extended United's winless run to five matches in all competitions, with Michael Carrick's side sitting 13th in the Premier League ahead of Sunday's trip to Leeds United.
Martinez's statement
Martinez addressed the controversy on Wednesday night in a statement posted to his Instagram story, explaining that his comments had come from a place of anger and disappointment rather than backing away from his criticism. He stopped short of issuing an apology.
“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.
“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.
“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.”
Plane confrontation
However, the fallout from Martinez's initial comments could have further consequences. Sky Sports has reported that at least one United player confronted the defender as the squad boarded their flight back to Manchester, with his remarks said to have caused anger and confusion among team-mates and senior figures at the club.
There have also been suggestions Martinez could face disciplinary action, while his future at Old Trafford has reportedly become uncertain following his public criticism of the club's decision-makers.
Speaking after the defeat in Madrid, the defender had been forthright in his assessment of United's need for further reinforcements.
“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.
“Tonight it is easy to [blame] the coach, easy to say the players but also we have to see other areas. You can't keep changing, changing, changing the manager. What about other areas? I can't say more.
“Last season we did everything, we created the base to create an amazing team.”
United had a scheduled day off on Wednesday as part of their post-match recovery programme, with Carrick due to face the media on Friday.
