Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez has apologised following his public criticism of the club's hierarchy after their Champions League defeat to Atletico Madrid. The Argentina international issued a fresh statement on Thursday after holding talks with manager Michael Carrick and senior club officials, including director of football Jason Wilcox.
Martinez's comments had sparked controversy at Old Trafford after he questioned Manchester United's summer transfer business and called for greater investment in the squad.
The centre-back admitted that his frustration following the defeat had influenced his decision to speak out, acknowledging that the timing and manner of his remarks were inappropriate.
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United continue to struggle for consistency under Carrick, with the club facing growing scrutiny over their performances and recruitment strategy. Martinez's apology came after his outburst against the Manchester United director.
Martinez Apologises After Meeting Manchester United Hierarchy
In a statement shared on Instagram, Martinez confirmed that he had met the club's leadership and manager to discuss the controversy.
"Today I met with the club's leadership and the manager. It was a very positive conversation, where we were able to exchange views and speak openly about what happened after Tuesday's game," the defender wrote.
He added that his passion for football had contributed to the outburst but accepted responsibility for how he expressed his frustration.
"The frustration of the defeat led me to express how I felt at a time and place that perhaps were not the right ones, and for that I want to apologise," Martinez said.
The 28-year-old also stressed the importance of unity at Manchester United, insisting that everyone at the club was working towards the same objective.
"With this situation now behind us, we are fully focused on winning together," he added.
According to reports, the club considers the matter resolved, although any internal disciplinary action has not been officially disclosed.
What Did Martinez Say About Jason Wilcox?
The controversy began after Manchester United's 2-0 defeat to Atletico Madrid in the Champions League on Tuesday. Martinez publicly questioned the club's recruitment and argued that the squad needed more reinforcements to compete with Europe's leading teams.
"I expect more [investment]. 100%. I expect more from our technical director," Martinez said, directly referring to Wilcox.
The defender also defended Carrick, suggesting that repeatedly changing managers would not solve the club's problems unless other areas were addressed.
His remarks placed the spotlight on United's transfer strategy and the responsibility of the club's senior executives. Martinez had initially released a statement explaining his comments but stopped short of apologising, making Thursday's message a significant shift in tone.
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Manchester United Look To Move On Ahead Of Leeds Clash
The episode has added to the pressure surrounding Manchester United's difficult start to the campaign. Their defeat in Madrid extended a frustrating run of results, while concerns over squad depth and recruitment have continued to dominate discussion around the club.
United are now preparing for their Premier League trip to Leeds United on Sunday, October 18. Carrick will hope the resolution of the Martinez controversy allows the squad to refocus on the pitch.