Lisandro Martínez launched an unusually public attack on Manchester United’s management, refusing to reduce the results crisis down to manager Michael Carrick and demanding that officials at the highest levels take their share of responsibility.
The Argentine defender’s comments came after United’s 2-0 defeat to Atlético Madrid in the Champions League, a result that extended the team’s winless run to five games and added to their defeats and struggles in a turbulent start to the season.
Speaking about the performance in Madrid, Lisandro said: “It was a bad performance, very bad. Sometimes what happens on the pitch is a reflection of the club’s current situation.”
He added: “We had a great season last year, so we expected more from the top, and more competitive players. Other teams have heavily reinforced their squads.”
The World Cup winner directly criticized the person in charge of football operations, saying: “I expected 100% more. I expected more from the technical director,” referring to Jason Wilcox, while acknowledging that the players themselves are required to perform at a higher level.
Regarding Carrick, Lisandro said: “He is doing his utmost, but every season is different, and you cannot just rely on what you did last season because opponents now know your style of play and every single detail.”
The United defender continued: “You can’t keep changing the manager over and over again. What about the other aspects? I can’t say anymore,” clarifying that Carrick is not solely the root of the problem, though he acknowledged the team’s need for tactical improvement.
United finished last season in third place under Carrick following Rúben Amorim’s departure, but they have started the current campaign with their worst league tally since 1986, despite spending around 148 million pounds sterling on strengthening the midfield. Meanwhile, Carrick responded that reacting emotionally after a defeat is understandable, but declined to comment before watching the full interview.
