Lisandro Martinez criticises Man United board over poor recruitment

Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez has criticised the club’s recruitment strategy, which he believes has contributed to their struggles in the 2026/2027 season.

The club has endured a difficult start to the season, particularly in the Premier League, where its lacklustre performances have left it struggling.

The team lost 2-0 to Atletico Madrid in the UEFA Champions League on October 13, 2026, after which the Argentine defender spoke out about the club’s challenges.

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Martinez said he expected the club to invest more in strengthening the squad. He also expressed disappointment with the technical director, arguing that the club should have built on the momentum established during the previous season.

“In general, I think last season we did everything. We created the base to build an amazing team. But this is something, to be honest, to prove something. How do you see yourself in this? Yeah, it's annoying, disappointing coming here, and I'm not seeing my team trying to get an amazing result here. It's disappointing.

“I expect more from our technical director. I have to be honest, as players, we have to do more, but it's just important that when you make a strong squad, to be ready for these kinds of nights,” he said.

Martinez also dismissed reports suggesting that Manchester United manager Michael Carrick could be sacked if results do not improve in the coming games.

He argued that repeatedly changing managers had not resolved the club’s struggles and called for a more comprehensive approach to addressing its problems.

“I don't think so. He does his best, but every season is different. You can't stay with what you did last season. The teams know how you play. The teams know every detail, and if you don't change, next season is a big problem. You start changing, changing, changing managers. But what about other areas? I can't say more because, also, tonight it's easy to say the coach, it's easy to say the players, but we also have to see other areas,” he added.

Watch the video below:

Lisandro Martínez did NOT hold back after United's loss to Atletico 😬👀 https://t.co/OGo25Pzd30

— Prime Video Sport UK (@primevideosport) October 13, 2026