After Tuesday's 0-2 Champions League defeat to Atletico Madrid, defender Lisandro Martinez has spoken out to defend his criticism of Manchester United's leadership. He said the remarks reflected his desire to see the club competing for major trophies.
In an Instagram post on Wednesday, the Argentina international acknowledged that frustration shaped what he said after the match, when he called for greater investment in the squad and questioned the recruitment efforts of football director Jason Wilcox. He did not, however, apologise.
"After the match, I spoke in a moment of anger and frustration at not getting the result we all wanted," Martinez wrote. "Anyone who knows me understands how I live football — with passion, commitment and a fierce hunger to win. And when things don't go your way, it hurts, especially when you wear the shirt of a club with the history and stature of Manchester United."
"My words reflected my emotion and my intense desire to see this club competing for the biggest trophies."
Martinez also stressed that the players must take responsibility for improving the team's performances. "I know that, first and foremost, it is us, the players, who have to make that happen, and I put myself at the front of that responsibility," he said. "We need to demand more of ourselves and work together to take Manchester United back to the top."
The defeat to Atletico Madrid extended United's winless run to five matches across all competitions, piling pressure on head coach Michael Carrick as the club adapts to life back in the Champions League after two seasons away.
"I believe in my team-mates, in our coach and in everyone working to move the club forward," Martinez added. "I am certain the way ahead is to keep working together, with ambition and commitment."
Manchester United have yet to issue an official response to Martinez's comments, though ESPN and Sky Sports reported that Wilcox retains the backing of the club's hierarchy.
Head coach Michael Carrick is due to speak to the media on Friday at his press conference ahead of Sunday's Premier League match against Leeds United.
