Martinez Doesn't Apologize for Criticism of Man's Management
October 16, 2026 · ArgentinaPerú
Lisandro Martinez has defended his criticism of Manchester United's management, stating that it stems from a desire to return the club to its former glory, while acknowledging the team's responsibility for poor performance.
Martinez Doesn't Apologize for Criticism of Man's Management
Why this is important
Lisandro Martinez's criticism of Manchester United's management shows the deep dissatisfaction felt by the players with the team's performance. With the hope of returning the club to glory, this statement reflects the pressure faced by players in the Premier League, especially after the defeat to Atletico Madrid. This also highlights the importance of communication between players and management in maintaining team spirit.
Background
Lisandro Martinez, as a center back, has an important role in Manchester United's defense. With experience in the Argentinian national team, he is expected to be able to lead his colleagues to recover from adversity and improve their performance in the Premier League. His criticism of management shows his ambition and desire to see the club return to winning ways.
Main Points
- Martinez Doesn't Apologize for Criticism of Man Management.
- Lisandro Martinez defended his criticism of Manchester United's management, stating that it stemmed from a desire to restore the club to its former glory, while acknowledging the team's responsibility for poor performance.
- Martinez's history with Man Utd.
"After the match, I spoke in a state of anger and disappointment because the result did not go as expected. Those who know me know that I live for football with passion, dedication and a strong desire to win. When things don't go as expected, it is very painful, especially when wearing the jersey of a club like Man Utd," wrote Martinez.
The Argentina national team player emphasized that his criticism reflected real emotions and the hope of seeing Manchester United compete for big titles again. According to him, setting high standards is the responsibility of everyone who wears the club uniform.
"When I say I want more, it points to the ambition that all members of the club need to have. We must continue to develop, become stronger and have everything it takes to compete at the highest level. That is the standard we must aim for, starting with myself," he explained.
Under the direction of coach Michael Carrick, Manchester United showed improved performance in the second half of the 2025-2026 season. They won 12 of their 17 games, ending the season in third place and returning to the Champions League, creating an optimistic atmosphere ahead of the new season. However, since the start of this season, the "Red Devils" have experienced difficulties. The club managed to win just one of its first six Premier League games, recording its worst start to a season in 40 years. They were also eliminated from the English League Cup after losing to Brighton despite winning 2-0.
Martinez acknowledged the players' responsibility in this series of disappointing results. The player born in 1998 still believes in his colleagues, coach Carrick, and everyone who is trying to take the club forward. He emphasized that the only way to improve the situation is by uniting, maintaining ambition and dedication.
"First of all, we, the players, have to show on the pitch. I put myself as the first responsible person. We have to demand more from ourselves, work together to bring Manchester United back to the top," he stressed.
This statement was made about 24 hours after Martinez publicly questioned Technical Director Jason Wilcox and stated that coach Carrick did not get enough support in the 2026 summer transfer market. Wilcox is an influential figure in Manchester United's football department, fully responsible for player recruitment. However, Executive Director Omar Berrada is also involved in the management of sports and commercial activities.
Martinez has the potential to receive internal sanctions because of his statements directed at management. However, he is not the only one who is dissatisfied with Manchester United's transfer policy. Harry Maguire and Luke Shaw have also expressed the club's hope of strengthening the squad in the summer, albeit in a more sober tone. Several players in the dressing room also reportedly share the same views as Martinez regarding Wilcox and the way the club is managed.
According to The Athletic's report, the most interesting thing in Martinez's statement was not what he said, but what he did not mention: an apology. Although he admitted he had spoken out of anger and disappointment, the Argentina defender showed no signs of regret in his post-match interview with Atletico. On the contrary, the assertion that his remarks reflected real emotion suggests that he still maintained his position, only choosing to convey it in a more calm and measured manner.
Martinez mentioned “ambition” twice in his statement, using it as motivation to express his dissatisfaction publicly. This can also gain sympathy from fans, who always hope that Manchester United returns to its position as the top power in Europe. However, over the past 13 years, fans have become accustomed to calls to restore the club's standing, from coaches, players, legends, to the media and club leaders. These strong statements still have not brought about the expected changes.
What sets Martinez apart is that he directly directs criticism at the club's management while still being a first-team player. Whether these actions can be a catalyst for real change remains an open question. When compared with the statement after the defeat to Atletico, Martinez's latest statement shows a more humble attitude. He acknowledged that the players must first be responsible, and also admitted that he needed to perform better. It could also be seen as an indirect admission of personal mistakes on the pitch, which contributed to Manchester United's disappointing start.
Martinez's statement publicly showing confidence in his team-mates and coach Carrick could also be interpreted as an attempt to improve relations in the dressing room after the controversial statement. However, the Argentine defender only emphasized his trust in "those who are working to help the club progress", without specifically naming the entire management. This manner of delivery still leaves the question: Does Martinez feel that some of the people in power at Old Trafford have not really tried their best to return Manchester United to the top?
What happened next
In the future, Manchester United is expected to respond to Martinez's criticism with steps that can improve the situation within the club. Teams' performances in the Premier League and other competitions will be greatly influenced by how they overcome these challenges. Martinez and his teammates need to show improved performance to meet fans' expectations and return to competing at the highest level.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the result of the Manchester United vs Atletico Madrid match?
Manchester United lost 0-2 to Atletico Madrid.
How will this defeat impact Manchester United's position in the Champions League table?
This defeat has the potential to affect Manchester United's position in the Champions League group phase.
Who criticized Manchester United management?
Lisandro Martinez criticized Manchester United's management.
What did Lisandro Martinez reveal after the defeat to Atletico Madrid?
Lisandro Martinez stated that his criticism was motivated by a desire to return the club to its top position.
When is the next match for Manchester United?
Information about the next match for Manchester United is not mentioned in the article.