Senne Lammens has called for Man Utd to remove 'sour taste' of Tottenham draw
United’s poor start to the campaign grew worse still on Tuesday night as they were turned over by Atletico Madrid in the Champions League, losing 2-0 after Leny Yoro was sent off late on.
Speaking at full-time, Martinez gave an ‘unprecedented’ interview to Amazon Prime in which he criticised Wilcox for failing to properly invest in United’s squad over the summer transfer window.
He also took aim at his team-mates, questioning the level of effort from some members of the United squad in defeat at the Metropolitano and saying the squad is “not good enough”.
Martinez’s comments have reportedly bred animosity among his team-mates, despite the fact the sentiment is shared by several senior members of the squad. One unnamed United player reportedly challenged Martinez to his face as the squad flew back to Manchester.
United are yet to settle on a short-term sanction for Martinez, with Sky Sports suggesting he could be in line for a fine or a suspension, though his days at the club now seem to be numbered.
The diminutive centre-back’s contract expires in the summer, and his days are said to be numbered.
MADRID, SPAIN - OCTOBER 13: Pablo Barrios of Atletico Madrid crosses the ball under pressure from Lisandro Martinez of Manchester United during the UEFA Champions League 2026/27 League Phase MD2 match between Atletico de Madrid and Manchester United at Estadio Metropolitano on October 13, 2026 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)
Martinez pushed to leave United over the summer amid interest from Atletico but United received no satisfactory bid. It remains to be seen whether he will be offered a new deal, with United known to be preparing a defensive overhaul for the coming transfer windows.
It does not appear likely he would leave in January, though, with United’s defence already in the grips of an availability crisis.
In spite of the criticism he is facing, Sky’s reporting adds Wilcox’s job is not under any immediate pressure.
Martinez was not the only United player to speak out at full-time, with Amad Diallo adding on his Snapchat story that the performance was “a f****** disgrace.”
Transfer news LIVE: Arsenal have new target, Alvarez twist; Chelsea get Scott boost
Man Utd handed new red card verdict after Atletico Madrid defeat
Rooney and Carragher agree on Martinez after Man Utd interview
Make 2026 the year of working smarter
Martinez has been a mainstay in United’s back line this season, appearing in all but one of their matches so far.
United’s poor start to the campaign has also brought Michael Carrick’s position into question, with reports suggesting the club is lining up Fabian Hurzeler, Eddie Howe and Antonio Conte as replacement candidates. He is also not thought to be facing the sack any time soon, though.