Manchester United’s defeat by Atlético Madrid has deepened the pressure around a season that has fallen well short of expectations, with Lisandro Martínez moving to clarify remarks made in the immediate aftermath of the match.
The Argentina defender had vented his frustration in the mixed zone following the loss, directing criticism towards the club’s hierarchy as United’s difficult start came under fresh scrutiny. Hours later, Martínez issued a more measured response, accepting that his initial comments had been shaped by anger at a result nobody at the club wanted.
Martínez accepts responsibility after Atlético setback
“After everything that has been said about my comments yesterday, I want to explain what I said and how I feel,” Martínez said. “I spoke after the game from a place of anger and frustration because we did not get the result we all wanted.”
He said his reaction reflected the commitment with which he approaches football and the weight attached to representing Manchester United.
“People who know me understand that I live football with passion, commitment and a huge desire to win,” he added. “When things do not go the way we want, it hurts — especially when you represent a club with Manchester United’s history and stature.”
Martínez maintained that his demand for higher standards came from his desire to see the club fighting for major honours, but stressed that those standards also apply directly to him and the squad.
“My words showed how I feel and how much I want to see this club competing for the biggest trophies,” he said. “Those high standards are part of the way I see football and the responsibility of wearing this shirt.
“When I say I want more, I mean the ambition every person at this club must have: to keep improving, become stronger and have everything needed to compete at the highest level. They are standards we should all aim for, starting with me.”
Focus turns back to the players
While his earlier reaction had put the spotlight on the leadership above the team, Martínez made clear that the players must carry the central responsibility for United’s performances.
“First and foremost, it is us as players who have to deliver, and I put myself at the front of that responsibility,” he said. “We need to demand more of ourselves and work together to take Manchester United back to the top.”
The defender also offered his backing to his team-mates, the manager and the wider staff, insisting unity and sustained work are the route out of the current run.
“I believe in my team-mates, our coach and everyone who works to move this club forward,” Martínez said. “I am convinced that we must continue working together, with ambition and commitment. My aim has been the same from day one: to win, compete at the highest level and give everything for this badge.”
