Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez has apologised for his public criticism of the club’s leadership following their Champions League defeat to Atletico Madrid, after holding talks with manager Michael Carrick and senior officials.
The Argentine’s comments came after Man United suffered a 2-0 defeat in Madrid on Tuesday, October 13, extending their winless run to five matches across all competitions.
Martinez had questioned the club’s ambition and transfer decisions, arguing that Carrick needed more support to build a squad capable of competing at the highest level.
His remarks also raised questions about the work of director of football Jason Wilcox.
However, the 28-year-old has now attempted to minimise the controversy, admitting that his frustration following the defeat influenced how and when he expressed his views.
Positive conversation
“Today I met with the club’s leadership and the manager,” he said in a social media post.
“It was a very positive conversation, where we were able to exchange views and speak openly about what happened after Tuesday’s game.
“Everyone knows that I am a passionate person and that I live football with great intensity.
“The frustration of the defeat led me to express how I felt at a time and place that perhaps were not the right ones, and for that I want to apologise.”
Man Utd look to move on
The apology marks a change in tone from Martinez, who had previously stood by his criticism of the club’s leadership despite the backlash surrounding his comments.
His initial remarks followed a disappointing result in Europe, with Man United struggling for consistency during the early stages of the 2026/27 campaign.
The Red Devils finished third in the Premier League last season to secure their return to the Champions League – but their recruitment has come under scrutiny as they attempt to compete with Europe’s leading clubs.
They have invested heavily in midfield during the summer transfer window, but questions remain over whether the squad has sufficient depth in other positions.
Martinez’s comments highlighted those concerns, although airing his frustrations publicly risked creating further problems for Carrick and the club’s leadership.
The defender’s apology could help ease tensions at Old Trafford as Man United look to put their difficult run behind them.
Manchester United now need to turn their attention towards their upcoming Premier League fixture against Leeds United on Sunday, October 18, with Carrick’s side under pressure to deliver a response.
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