Manchester United have reportedly placed Lisandro Martinez on the transfer list after the Argentine defender publicly criticised the club's hierarchy, including director of football Jason Wilcox, following a Champions League defeat to Atletico Madrid. The decision comes despite Martinez issuing an apology and being named in the starting line-up for Sunday's draw against Leeds United.
Outburst and Apology
Martinez's outburst followed United's European exit at the hands of Atletico Madrid, during which he slammed the club's board. Although he subsequently apologised and was selected for the Leeds match, it appears his future at Old Trafford is now in doubt. The defender was substituted at half-time during the Leeds clash after picking up a knock, leaving his availability for the midweek Champions League fixture against Como in serious doubt.
Speaking ahead of the Leeds game, manager Michael Carrick confirmed the controversy had been resolved internally. He stated: "He's released his statement, he's realised he's made a mistake and that's enough for all of us to move on with. From our point of view, the acknowledgment of what's been done has certainly been enough. We've moved on and we're definitely not looking back at it now."
Transfer List and Contract Situation
According to the Daily Mail, United have placed the centre-back on the transfer list as they look to reshape their back line ahead of next season. Although Martinez's contract is due to expire in the summer, it is widely expected that a one-year extension will be activated, allowing the club to command a transfer fee for his services.
The report also suggests that Everton's Jarrad Branthwaite is firmly in United's sights as a potential replacement. The young Everton defender has long been on United's radar, with the Toffees having rejected several bids of up to £50million back in the summer of 2024.
Key Role and Team Spirit
Martinez has been a key figure for United this season, lining up as the left-sided centre-back alongside Harry Maguire. Carrick also addressed the need for the squad to channel their intensity positively, adding: "We need to carry that intensity and that willingness and that togetherness and that spirit. As a group, we need to use it, and we've got to use it in the right way."
