Lisandro Martínez defends criticism of United after Champions League loss

The Argentine defender said his comments reflected frustration and a desire for greater investment, while the club weighs his contract extension.

By Felo News Desk · Published Thu, 15 Oct 2026 13:15:57 GMT

Lisandro Martínez, Manchester United’s Argentine defender, issued a social‑media statement defending his criticism of the club’s hierarchy after the team’s 2‑0 Champions League loss to Atletico Madrid on Tuesday.

What happened

United were beaten 2‑0 by Atletico Madrid in the Champions League on 15 October 2026. Following the defeat, Martínez publicly criticised director of football Jason Wilcox, questioning recruitment and calling for more investment in the squad. The comments were made on Instagram on Wednesday, 16 October 2026.

What the reports add

News18 reported that Martínez’s remarks have put his future at Old Trafford in doubt, noting he is in the final year of his contract and that United have an option to extend it until June 2028, but both sides are hesitant. The outlet added that Spain is understood to be his preferred destination if he leaves.

Al Jazeera detailed Martínez’s Instagram post, quoting him as saying he spoke “out of anger and frustration at not getting the result we all wanted” and that his words reflect his passion and desire to see United compete for the biggest honours. The article said he stopped short of apologising.

What was said

“After the match, I spoke out of anger and frustration at not getting the result we all wanted,” Martínez wrote, as reported by Al Jazeera.

He added, “Those who know me know how I live football, with passion, commitment and a huge desire to win. And when things don’t go our way, it hurts, especially when representing a club with the history and stature of Manchester United.”

How it came about

Martínez’s criticism follows a pattern of public comments after United’s recent poor run, including a 2‑0 loss on 13 October 2026 that prompted his earlier remarks about the club’s hierarchy, covered by Felo News in the article Lisandro Martínez slams United hierarchy after 2‑0 Champions League defeat. The defender has been seeking an improved contract since winning the World Cup with Argentina during his debut season at United in 2022‑23, but negotiations have stalled, according to News18.

Key facts

Manchester United lost 2‑0 to Atletico Madrid in the Champions League on 15 Oct 2026. (aljazeera.com)
Lisandro Martínez criticised director Jason Wilcox after the defeat. (news18.com)
Martínez posted on Instagram on 16 Oct 2026 defending his remarks. (aljazeera.com)
United have an option to extend Martínez’s contract until June 2028, but both sides are hesitant. (news18.com)