Martinez Stands by His Criticism of United's Leadership After Atletico Defeat: "My Words Reflect How I Feel"

Manchester United's troubles have spilled from the pitch into the boardroom, with Lisandro Martinez refusing to back down from his criticism of the club's leadership in the wake of Tuesday's 2-0 Champions League defeat at Atletico Madrid.

Writing on Instagram on Wednesday, the Argentina defender acknowledged his post-match remarks had been shaped by anger but stopped short of apologising. In those remarks he had called for greater investment in the squad and questioned director of football Jason Wilcox's recruitment efforts. "After the match, I spoke out of anger and frustration at not getting the result we all wanted," he wrote, adding that his words reflected how he felt and how much he wanted to see a club of United's stature competing for the biggest honours.

Martinez was quick to include himself and his teammates in the reckoning, insisting the players had to deliver first. He expressed belief in his teammates, manager Michael Carrick and everyone working at the club, and urged a united effort to take United back to the top.

The defeat in Madrid extended United's winless run to five matches in all competitions and added to the scrutiny around Carrick, with the club adjusting to life back in the Champions League after two seasons away. United have not publicly responded to Martinez's remarks, although ESPN and Sky Sports reported that Wilcox retained the backing of the club's leadership.