Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez has blamed “anger and frustration” for his criticism of the club’s hierarchy over its transfer spending following their 2-0 defeat to Atlético Madrid in the Champions League.
The Argentine defender had questioned the club’s recruitment plans, saying he expected greater investment in the squad after United finished third in the Premier League last season to secure a return to Europe’s elite competition.
United suffered the defeat in Spain on Tuesday as their difficult start to the season continued. The club are also enduring their worst opening to a Premier League campaign in 40 years.
Martinez had specifically criticised technical director Jason Wilcox, saying he “100 percent” expected more investment during the transfer window.
United signed three midfielders Carlos Baleba, Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos for around £150 million, but their spending remained below that of several Premier League rivals.
In a statement posted on social media, Martinez said his earlier remarks were driven by disappointment over the team’s performance rather than a desire to undermine the club.
“After the match, I spoke out of anger and frustration at not getting the result we all wanted,” he said.
The defender explained that his call for greater investment reflected the ambition he believed everyone at Manchester United should share as the club seeks to compete at the highest level.
“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,” he added.
Martinez also reaffirmed his confidence in his teammates and manager, insisting that collective effort was necessary to improve the club’s fortunes.
“I believe in my team-mates, 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,” he said.
The defender’s comments come as scrutiny intensifies over United’s performances and the club’s direction. Martinez has also faced criticism for his own displays, including an own goal in a 1-1 draw against Fulham last month and his struggle against Dominic Solanke in last weekend’s draw with Tottenham.
Manager Michael Carrick is also facing mounting pressure just months after being appointed permanently.
United travel to historic rivals Leeds United on Sunday before returning to Champions League action against Italian side Como on Wednesday.
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