Man Utd statement released after scathing club criticism

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Cameron Smith | Digital Content Producer

Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez has released a public statement following his scathing comments after their 2-0 defeat to Atletico Madrid in the Champions League on Tuesday.

During a post-match interview with Amazon Prime Video, the Argentina international took aim at the club’s hierarchy for their lack of investment over the summer, and it’s understood that his long-term future at Old Trafford is now in doubt, despite the fact his opinion is reportedly shared by a host of his current team-mates.

Man Utd director of football Jason Wilcox remains safe in his role at the club, as per a report from The Times, but Sky Sports claim there is no guarantee that Martinez’s contract will be extended beyond next summer. He is currently set to become a free agent in July, although his deal does include a 12-month extension option should Man Utd wish to keep him.

Following their defeat to Atletico Madrid on Tuesday evening, the Red Devils are now without a win in their last five matches across all competitions and they travel to Elland Road to face Leeds United on Sunday in a bid to earn their first Premier League win since August.

It’s understood the club retain their faith in Michael Carrick, but his position as the Man Utd head coach will come under intense scrutiny if his side are unable to beat Leeds this weekend.

Meanwhile, Martinez has released a public statement on his Instagram account to explain his comments, although he refused to apologise for his outburst.

Lisandro Martinez statement

“Following everything that has been said about my comments yesterday, I want to share some thoughts on what I said and how I feel,” Martinez posted on his Instagram Story.

“After the match, I spoke out of anger and frustration at not getting the result we all wanted.

“Those who know me know how I live football, with passion, commitment and a huge desire to win. And when things don’t go our way, it hurts, especially when representing a club with the history and stature of Manchester United.

“My words reflect how I feel and how much I want to see this club competing for the biggest honours. Those high standards are part of how I see football and the responsibility that comes with wearing this shirt.

“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.

“I know that, first and foremost, it’s us, the players, who have to deliver, and I put myself at the front of that responsibility. We need to demand even more of ourselves and work together to take Manchester United back to the top.

“I believe in my teammates, 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.

“My goal has been the same since day one, to win, to compete at the highest level and to give everything I have for this badge.”