Lisandro Martinez calls for Manchester United to strengthen squad after Atletico defeat

Lisandro Martinez has criticised Manchester United’s hierarchy after their 2-0 Champions League defeat by Atletico Madrid, saying the club must provide greater support if the team is to compete at the highest level.

The Argentina defender described United’s performance in the Spanish capital as “really poor” and said the result reflected wider problems in the way the club is being run.

Martinez said the squad required significant strengthening after last season’s encouraging campaign secured a return to Europe’s elite competition. He warned that United needed further additions to maintain their progress and keep pace with domestic and continental rivals.

“We expect more from the top, from up, to bring more players to compete,” Martinez said.

“Many teams bring many players as well, and today also Atletico, they have an amazing team, and they deserved to win.”

United spent roughly £155m on four major signings during the summer transfer window but did not fill what Martinez viewed as important gaps at left-back and upfront.

Asked whether the players had received enough support in the market, the 28-year-old gave a direct assessment of the club’s recruitment approach and said he expected more from technical director Jason Wilcox.

“I expect more from our technical director, I have to be honest,” Martinez said.

“As players, we have to do more, but it’s also so important when you build a strong squad to be ready for these kinds of nights.”

The comments came as manager Michael Carrick continues to face public criticism over United’s sluggish form. However, Martinez defended Carrick and rejected the idea that the manager alone was responsible for the team’s difficulties.

“I don’t think so,” Martinez said when asked whether Carrick was at fault.

“He does his best. Every season is different, and if you don’t change, next season is a big problem. You can change the manager, but what about other areas? It’s easy to say the coach or the players, but we have to see other areas.”

Martinez argued that changing managers would not resolve the club’s problems if weaknesses elsewhere in the organisation remained unaddressed.

His remarks placed responsibility on the board and the wider leadership structure, rather than solely on Carrick or the players, after a passive display against Atletico Madrid. The defeat also underlined Martinez’s belief that United’s current squad is not sufficiently equipped for the demands of Champions League football.