Lisandro Martínez has delivered a strong public criticism of Manchester United’s leadership following their 2-0 UEFA Champions League defeat to Atlético Madrid on October 13, 2026, arguing that the disappointing performance reflects deeper problems within the club.
United conceded after just 47 seconds at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano before Leny Yoro received a red card in the 74th minute. Ademola Lookman then scored five minutes later to secure Atlético’s victory.
The defeat extended Manchester United’s winless run to five matches, leaving Michael Carrick under growing pressure as scrutiny intensifies over the team’s performances, recruitment and direction.
Martínez Demands More From Manchester United’s Leadership
Speaking to Amazon Prime Video after the match, Martínez did not hide his frustration with United’s performance or the wider situation at the club.
“Really poor. Really poor. I have to control myself a lot. But sometimes it is a reflection of the mirror of how our club is at the moment,” the defender said.
Martínez contrasted the current campaign with last season, when United secured a return to the Champions League, arguing that the club needed to strengthen its squad to remain competitive.
“We did a fantastic season last season and now we expect more from the top, more players to compete because many teams bring many players as well,” he added.
The Argentine specifically called for greater investment and referenced technical director Jason Wilcox while acknowledging that players also had a responsibility to improve.
“I expect more [investment]. 100%. I expect more from our technical director,” Martínez said.
He also praised Atlético’s quality, admitting that the Spanish side deserved their victory.
Defender Questions Repeated Managerial Changes
Martínez went beyond recruitment concerns, suggesting that Manchester United could not solve their problems simply by repeatedly changing managers.
“You can’t keep changing, changing, changing the manager. What about other areas? I can’t say more,” he said.
The defender argued that criticism should not focus exclusively on Carrick or the players, insisting that other areas of the club also needed examination.
When asked whether Carrick had received sufficient backing, Martínez said the manager was doing his best but emphasized that football changes from season to season. Opponents adapt to established systems, making squad development and tactical flexibility increasingly important.
His comments have added another dimension to the debate surrounding United’s leadership, particularly as the club attempts to establish consistency in domestic and European competition. United reportedly spent approximately £155 million during the summer transfer window, primarily strengthening their midfield after finishing third in the Premier League the previous season.
However, questions remain over whether the recruitment strategy adequately addressed other areas of the squad.
Critics have pointed to limited additions at left-back and in attack, suggesting that a lack of depth in those positions could become a problem during a demanding season.
Martínez’s demand for further investment has therefore reignited discussion about whether United’s recruitment has kept pace with their ambitions.
Despite the club’s reported spending, their recent results have raised questions about the balance of the squad and whether more changes are required to compete consistently at the highest level.
Wayne Rooney Hits Back at Martínez’s Comments
Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney disagreed with Martínez’s decision to air his concerns publicly.
Commentating for Amazon Prime Video, Rooney said the defender’s remarks had gone “too far” and argued that discussions about recruitment and the club’s internal structure should remain private.
Rooney acknowledged that Martínez clearly cared about Manchester United and accepted that further investment might be justified in certain positions. However, he questioned the timing and manner of the criticism.
He suggested the comments risked disrespecting teammates, raised questions about whether they had been planned in advance and could undermine a dressing room that needs unity during a difficult period.
Rooney also argued that Martínez’s own performances had not been strong enough to justify making such demands publicly.
The disagreement highlights the tension between players calling for improvements behind the scenes and club figures who believe internal matters should be addressed privately.
Carrick Responds as Pressure Mounts
Carrick subsequently described Martínez’s comments as an emotional reaction immediately after a disappointing defeat.
The manager now faces the challenge of restoring confidence and improving results while the club comes under increased scrutiny.
United’s five-match winless run and record of just two victories in nine games across all competitions under Carrick have intensified questions about their direction.
Martínez’s remarks have shifted part of the conversation away from the immediate result and towards recruitment, investment and the club’s leadership structure.
Whether his public intervention leads to meaningful discussions behind the scenes remains to be seen. For now, Manchester United must address their performances on the pitch while attempting to maintain unity during a difficult spell.
Esther Afriyie Kumah is the Digital Media & Operations Manager and a writer AL Media Sports, the sports division of AL Media Group. She specializes in sports journalism, content and video production, covering Premier League, Champions League, La Liga, and African football with in-depth match reports, tactical analysis, player ratings, and expert insights.