Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez has launched a scathing attack on the club’s hierarchy for failing to strengthen the squad following Champions League qualification.
Tuesday’s 2-0 defeat to Atletico Madrid means United have now gone five matches without a win.
Their last victory dates back to September 10 against Azerbaijan champion Sabah FK. Their only other win this season came against newly promoted Ipswich at Old Trafford, when they had to come from behind.
United finished third in the Premier League last season to seal a return to the Champions League for the first time in three years.
“We had a fantastic season last season and now we are expecting more elite players, more players because many teams are also bringing many players,” Martinez said.
“Atletico have an incredible team and they deserved to win today.
“I expect more (investment). 100%. I expect more from our technical director (Jason Wilcox).
“I have to be honest, as players we need to do more, but it’s also important when you’re a strong team to be ready for this kind of night.
“Tonight it’s easy to (blame) the coach, easy to say the players but we also have to look at other areas.”
Martinez’s view was echoed by many external observers and was also mentioned by some at Old Trafford.
The failure to provide striking support for Benjamin Sesko and the competition at left-back for Luke Shaw were both highlighted in a summer where United spent £155 million on three midfielders to the exclusion of every other position.
Minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe sat next to United chief executive Omar Berrada at the Metropolitano stadium on Tuesday.
“You can’t keep changing, changing, changing managers,” Martinez said. “What about other areas? I can’t say more.
“Last season we did everything, we created the basis to create an incredible team.”
Martinez’s comments echo similar ones made by his Argentine defensive partner Cristian Romero against the Tottenham board last season.
Ironically, Romero was in Atletico’s side against United following his summer move to Spain.
Martinez has one year left on his contract with United and has not yet agreed to an extension.
Gn sports
