Lisandro Martinez urges Man Utd to strengthen squad after Atletico loss
Lisandro Martinez has publicly demanded greater investment from Manchester United’s football leadership after the Champions League defeat at Atletico Madrid, saying the club need a stronger squad for nights of that level.
Martinez targets squad building after Madrid loss
The Argentina defender delivered a fierce assessment after United’s difficult night at the Metropolitano, directing criticism towards director of football Jason Wilcox and the club’s summer recruitment.
Martinez described the display as “really poor” and said United’s present problems reflected the wider state of the club. He acknowledged Atletico deserved their win, but stressed that United had to strengthen after last season’s successful campaign.
Asked whether the current group can compete in the Champions League, Martinez said he expected more backing from above. He accepted that the players must improve too, but argued that a powerful squad is essential for major European fixtures.
- Martinez said United needed additional players capable of competing at Champions League level.
- He called for more investment from technical director Jason Wilcox.
- He also conceded that the squad must take responsibility for improving results.
- Summer arrivals Youri Tielemans, Andrey Santos and Carlos Baleba all began the match in Spain.
Early goal and Yoro dismissal swing the tie
Michael Carrick’s side arrived in Madrid needing a result to halt their stuttering form, but their task became harder almost immediately when Atletico scored inside 50 seconds.
United responded by creating chances to level the game, only for Leny Yoro’s disputed red card to change the pattern of the contest. Atletico made their numerical advantage count, with Ademola Lookman scoring the decisive goal with 11 minutes remaining.
The refereeing anger continued after full-time. Winger Amad posted an expletive-laden message on Snapchat, calling the officiating a disgrace and saying he had no words for what had happened.
New signings respond as Carrick retains backing
Tielemans declined to address Martinez’s criticism when questioned after the match, saying he had no comment and did not know about the defender’s remarks.
Santos, however, apologised to the United supporters who travelled to Spain and said the team must now work their way back to winning matches.
The midfielder insisted the dressing room remains behind Carrick, his staff and the players despite the poor run. Santos admitted United are in a bad spell but said the squad believe they can reverse it through hard work.
Scrutiny has already intensified around the camp, with captain Bruno Fernandes’ body language also attracting criticism. Martinez’s comments have added a fresh public sign of strain within the squad.
Leeds trip is next for United
United now face a rapid turnaround before Sunday’s trip to Elland Road to meet Leeds United. The Yorkshire derby comes with pressure mounting around Carrick and his coaching staff after the damaging European defeat.
Victory would offer an immediate response. Another setback could deepen the tension around the manager as United attempt to stop their season slipping further away.
