Lisandro Martinez has called for greater investment at Manchester United and urged the club’s football hierarchy to build a squad capable of competing on difficult European nights.
The Argentina international made the comments after United’s defeat by Atletico Madrid, insisting that the players expected more from technical director Jason Wilcox and the club’s decision-makers.
“We did a fantastic season last season and now we expect more from the top, more players to compete because many teams bring many players as well,” Martinez said.
He added: “I expect more (investment). 100%. I expect more from our technical director (Jason Wilcox). I have to be honest, as players we have to do more but it is also important when you make a strong squad to be ready for this kind of night.”
Martinez’s criticism has attracted attention, although the concerns he raised are understood to be shared by other members of the Manchester United dressing room. One source claimed that players had been disappointed by the club’s lack of activity in strengthening the squad during the summer.
“At some point, someone’s patience was going to run out,” the source said. “There was real surprise and disappointment at the lack of work on the squad this summer. Players aren’t that different from fans in a lot of ways – there’s a buzz when top players join to strengthen the team, and they know they didn’t do enough of that this season.”
The comments are likely to increase pressure on United’s board, which has faced criticism from supporters over the way the club has been run. Other senior players are also said to support the substance of Martinez’s remarks.
There is nevertheless a risk that the dispute could further damage relations between the squad and the club’s leadership. Former manager Ruben Amorim had expressed similar frustrations with United chiefs towards the end of his time at Old Trafford before being dismissed.
Martinez’s future could also become a talking point if his dissatisfaction continues. Barcelona are understood to be among the clubs interested in the defender as he approaches the end of his contract, raising the prospect of further transfer speculation in the coming months.
