Lisandro Martinez has clarified his comments about Manchester United’s leadership after admitting he spoke out of “anger and frustration” following their defeat to Atletico Madrid.
The defender called for more from those “at the top” after the 2-0 Champions League loss, saying the club needed to do more in the transfer market.
But he has now issued a statement explaining that his criticism came from his desire to see United competing at the highest level.
“Following everything that has been said about my comments yesterday, I want to share some thoughts on what I said and how I feel,” Martinez wrote on social media.
“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.
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“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.”
The Argentine also backed manager Michael Carrick and his team-mates as United look to respond.
“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.”
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