Lisandro Martinez issued a statement on Wednesday evening to explain the comments he made after Manchester United’s 2‑0 defeat to Atlético Madrid in the Champions League, but he did not offer an apology. The Argentine defender’s post‑match interview had sparked a firestorm, with critics accusing him of attacking the club’s hierarchy and singling out technical director Jason Wilcox for the team’s lack of summer investment.
In his Instagram post, Martinez said he had spoken “out of anger and frustration” after the loss. He described himself as a player who lives football with passion, commitment and an intense desire to win, and he explained that his remarks reflected how badly he wants United to compete for the biggest trophies. “When I talk about wanting more, I’m talking about the ambition we must all have as part of this club,” he wrote, stressing that the responsibility to deliver ultimately lies with the players.
The defender also emphasised his faith in his teammates, the manager and everyone working to lift the club. He reiterated that his goal has always been to win and to give everything for the badge, and he urged the squad to demand more of themselves and to work together to return United to the top of English and European football.
Despite the clarification, the controversy remains. Former United striker Carra and teammate Marcus Röland have publicly criticised Martinez’s outburst, and the club’s future for the defender is now in doubt as the board reviews the situation. Manchester United’s next steps will depend on how the club’s hierarchy responds to the incident and whether they decide to move forward with Martinez or seek a different direction.