Lisandro Martínez criticism pushes Manchester United to consider his exit

Lisandro Martínez said, in the heat of the moment after Manchester United's 2-0 defeat to Atlético de Madrid in the Champions League, that he was expecting more investment from the board. These comments, described as incendiary, sparked a shockwave within the English club and could cost the Argentine defender dearly.

Management's Reaction

According to reports, Manchester United would now be looking to part ways with Martínez quickly, who is also said to have angered a portion of the dressing room. The club had considered opening talks to extend his contract, which runs until June 2027, but this prospect has taken a hit.

Transfer Market Context

Martínez accused the board of missing the summer transfer window, noting that only three new players, all midfielders – Carlos Baleba (€75 M), Andrey Santos (€56 M) and Youri Tielemans (€41 M) – have joined the Red Devils. He added: “I was expecting more investment in the transfer window. I expect more from our technical director (Jason Wilcox, editor’s note).”

The defender acknowledged that the poor start to the season, with two wins, three draws and four defeats across all competitions, was also the players’ responsibility. “We have to be honest. We, the players, need to do more, but it’s important to build a strong team for evenings like this.”

Martínez slams Manchester United's top brass as Carrick faces pressure

Internally, the narrative would differ from that presented to the media, where the manager defended his player. However, the Manchester dressing room would be turning against Martínez, according to English sources.

A teammate is said to have even confronted Martínez as he boarded the plane back to England, showing the loss of support within the squad. At 28, the defender sees his future at Old Trafford becoming increasingly uncertain.

Lisandro Martínez puts technical director Jason Wilcox under fire after Champions League defeat

A transfer as early as the January winter window would now be conceivable, especially as Martínez has been looking to leave the club for several months, tired of the poor results.