Lisandro Martinez has publicly criticized Manchester United’s board for failing to strengthen the squad after the club’s return to the Champions League, sparking a debate about the timing and impact of his comments. The Argentine defender, who joined United from Ajax in 2022, said on Amazon Prime that the club’s investment in players has been insufficient, especially after the team’s 2‑0 loss to Atlético Madrid. United are now five games win‑less, with their last victory coming against Azerbaijani champions Sabah FK in September.
United finished third in the Premier League last season, securing Champions League qualification for the first time in three years. Manager Michael Carrick, who took over in January after Ruben Amorim’s dismissal, guided the team to 12 wins in 17 games and was given a permanent two‑year contract. Despite this progress, Martinez feels the club has not added enough depth, noting the lack of striking support for Benjamin Seskó and competition at left‑back for Luke Shaw. He pointed to the summer spending of £155 million on midfielders as evidence of a misplaced focus.
Martinez’s remarks have been echoed by former United players Wayne Rooney and Ashley Young, who warned that public criticism could fracture the dressing room. Rooney compared the situation to his own 2010 criticism of Sir Alex Ferguson, which he later apologized for. Young stressed that while recruitment must improve, players must also step up. Former England goalkeeper Paul Robinson said he understood the player’s frustration but questioned the timing, suggesting that positivity is needed in the locker room amid the club’s current turbulence.
United’s hierarchy has already seen significant upheaval. The club has sacked two managers in the past two seasons and dismissed sporting director Dan Ashworth only five months after his appointment. Minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe and chief executive Omar Berrada have faced criticism over their decisions, including a costly stadium project and rising ticket prices. The club’s debt stands at £1.1 billion, and fans have questioned whether the money could have been better spent on squad reinforcement.
Michael Carrick responded to the controversy by saying he had not seen the interview and would need more information before commenting. He emphasized the importance of moving forward quickly and maintaining unity. The debate continues as United look to stabilize their squad and management structure while striving for better results in both domestic and European competitions.