Lisandro Martinez Calls Out Manchester United Hierarchy for Lack of Investment After Champions League Loss

Lisandro Martinez, defender for Manchester United, did not mince words in his criticism of the club's hierarchy following their Champions League defeat to Atletico Madrid on Tuesday. The loss, which concluded with a 2-0 scoreline, extends Manchester United's winless streak to five consecutive games across all competitions. Martinez, however, shifted focus from the on-pitch performance to issues he believes lie off the pitch, stating his expectation of greater investment to enable the team to compete at the highest level.

The Argentina international specifically named football director Jason Wilcox, asserting that Manchester United requires more signings to rival their competitors. "I expect more from our technical director. I have to be honest. And also, as players, we have to do more," Martinez told Amazon Prime. "Tonight it is easy to [blame] the coach, easy to say the players but also we have to see other areas."

Atletico Madrid took an early lead through Pablo Barrios within the first minute at the Metropolitano. Ademola Lookman later secured the victory in the 79th minute, shortly after Manchester United defender Leny Yoro received a red card. Manchester United currently sits on three points in the Champions League league phase, having begun their campaign with a 4-0 victory over Sabah FK. This marks Manchester United's return to the Champions League after a two-season absence, following their last appearance in the 2023/24 competition where they finished at the bottom of their group.

"We had a fantastic season last season and now we expect more from the top, from upstairs, to bring in more players to compete, because many teams have brought in many players as well," Martinez added. "Atletico have an amazing team and they deserved to win today. I have to be honest, as players we have to do more but it is also important when you make a strong squad to be ready for this kind of night."

Manchester United, currently 13th in the Premier League, are scheduled to visit Leeds United on Sunday before travelling to Como for their next Champions League fixture on October 21. Former Manchester United star Wayne Rooney commented on Martinez's remarks, deeming them unwarranted and potentially disruptive to the dressing room. "It is disrespectful to his teammates," Rooney was quoted as saying by the BCC. "He is saying his teammates aren't good enough. Bruno [Fernandes] is the only one with any right to say that. Behind closed doors, it happens – but that interview isn't going to help. [Martinez] has tried to speak on behalf of the players but done it the wrong way."

In other Champions League news, Barcelona rallied to defeat Galatasaray 4-1, overturning a first-half deficit with Lamine Yamal providing two assists. Galatasaray had taken the lead through Alexey Batrakov in the 28th minute, and a potential second goal from Baris Yilmaz was disallowed by VAR for offside. Joao Cancelo equalised just before half-time, and Yamal then assisted Fermin Lopez and Anthony Gordon in the 50th and 53rd minutes respectively. Karim Adeyemi sealed the victory for Barcelona.

Additionally, Arsenal secured a swift victory against Lille, scoring three goals in seven minutes. Jurrien Timber opened the scoring in the 64th minute from a pass by Noni Madueke. Substitute Bukayo Saka then assisted Eberechi Eze's goal, before Kai Havertz provided the assist for Saka's third goal in the 71st minute.