Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez has released a fresh statement following his public outburst after the 2-0 Champions League defeat to Atletico Madrid on Tuesday night.
The Argentine has been a key player for the Red Devils over the past four years, but his future has been put into doubt after his scathing remarks about sporting director Jason Wilcox.
The World Cup winner said that he expects more from Wilcox in terms of building a stronger squad and added that the current crop of players are not good enough to compete for big trophies.
Just 24 hours after his comments, Martinez clarified on Instagram stories (via Sky Sports) that he spoke out of anger and frustration after the defeat, but surprisingly did not apologise.
He wrote: “After the match, I spoke out of anger and frustration at not getting the result we all wanted. Those who know me know how I live football, with passion, commitment and a huge desire to win.
“And when things don’t go our way, it hurts, especially when representing a club with the history and stature of Manchester United. My words reflect how I feel and how much I want to see this club competing for the biggest honours.
“Those high standards are part of how I see football and the responsibility that comes with wearing this shirt. When I talk about wanting more, I’m talking about the ambition we must all have as part of this club.
“To keep growing, to become stronger and to have everything we need to compete at the highest level. These are standards we must all hold ourselves to, starting with me.
“I know that, first and foremost, it’s us, the players, who have to deliver, and I put myself at the front of that responsibility. We need to demand even more of ourselves and work together to take Manchester United back to the top.
“I believe in my teammates, our manager and everyone working to help this club move forward. I’m convinced that the way forward is to keep working together, with ambition and commitment.
“My goal has been the same since day one, to win, to compete at the highest level and to give everything I have for this badge.”
Man Utd have a big decision to make on Martinez
The centre-back did not seem apologetic about his comments towards the hierarchy, and it remains to be seen how United handle the situation in the coming days.
The squad will return to training today after getting Wednesday off, and Martinez will most certainly be fined for his public rant targeting the sporting director.
The big question is whether he will be picked in the squad to face Leeds United in the Premier League on Sunday. Manager Michael Carrick should provide clarity in the pre-match presser.
Leeds have been brilliant as a high-pressing outfit with intensity this term. They caused Arsenal all sorts of problems, particularly on the left side of the Gunners’ defence.
Martinez’s presence will be crucial in the heart of the backline to provide guidance to 20-year-old Ayden Heaven if he continues as the makeshift left-back at Elland Road.
United face another tough assignment in Yorkshire, and Martinez’s absence would be a huge blow.
Regardless of what happens on Sunday, Martinez’s long-term future at United has been put into serious doubt, particularly with his contract expiring at the end of the season.
United have the option to extend for another 12 months, but we won’t be surprised if they explore a winter sale after the outburst rather than triggering the extension clause.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com