Man United team-mate reportedly confronts Martinez after Atletico rant
Lisandro Martinez’s Manchester United future has come under scrutiny after a team-mate reportedly confronted him over his post-match comments following Tuesday’s 2-0 defeat by Atletico Madrid.
According to Sky Sports, a United player challenged the Argentine defender over his interview during the team’s flight back to Manchester, while several other squad members were reportedly unhappy with his remarks.
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Martinez sparked controversy after criticising the club’s hierarchy and questioning whether head coach Michael Carrick had received enough support during the summer transfer window.
Team-mates reportedly unhappy with comments
The defender questioned United’s decision-making after their Champions League defeat, arguing that repeatedly changing managers would not solve the club’s problems without improvements in other areas.
When asked whether Carrick had been adequately backed, Martinez said: “I don’t think so.
“He does his best. Every season is different. You can’t stay with what you did last season.”
He added that opponents studied United’s tactics and that the team needed to evolve to remain competitive.
“You can’t keep changing, changing, changing the manager. What about other areas? I can’t say more,” Martinez said.
His comments have reportedly caused tension within the dressing room, with the confrontation on the flight home adding to questions about his relationship with his team-mates.
The 29-year-old’s long-term future at Old Trafford is also uncertain, with his current contract due to expire at the end of the season. United have an option to extend the deal by another year.
Carrick calls for unity ahead of Leeds clash
Carrick declined to discuss Martinez’s interview in detail after the Atletico defeat, saying he had not watched it and that the immediate aftermath of a disappointing result was not the right time to address the issue.
“I have not seen it so I don’t think it is the right time,” the United head coach said.
“We all care and show that in different ways but now is the time to be together and work through.”
United have managed just two victories in all competitions this season, increasing pressure on Carrick as the club attempts to recover from its difficult start.
The Red Devils will look to respond when they travel to Elland Road to face Leeds United on Sunday.