Man Utd Consider Disciplinary Action Against Martinez Over Public Criticism

Manchester United are reportedly considering disciplinary action against defender Lisandro Martinez following his public criticism of the club’s hierarchy after their 2-0 defeat to Atletico Madrid in the UEFA Champions League.

Reports indicate that the club is assessing the possibility of fining the Argentine defender after he questioned United’s summer recruitment strategy and called for greater investment to strengthen the squad.

Speaking after Tuesday’s defeat, Martinez expressed disappointment with the club’s management, particularly technical director Jason Wilcox, over what he described as a lack of sufficient recruitment.

“We did a fantastic season last season and now we expect more from the top, more players to compete because many teams bring many players as well,” Martinez said.

“I expect more [investment]. 100 per cent. I expect more from our technical director.”

The defender also argued that the club’s struggles should not be blamed solely on the manager or players, insisting that other areas of the club’s operations needed to be examined.

“Tonight it is easy to blame the coach, easy to say the players, but also we have to see other areas,” he added.

Martinez further questioned United’s repeated managerial changes, suggesting that replacing coaches without addressing wider structural issues would not resolve the club’s problems.

“You can’t keep changing, changing, changing the manager. What about other areas?” he asked.

According to The Athletic’s Manchester United correspondent, Laurie Whitwell, a fine for Martinez is considered “inevitable”, although several players in the dressing room reportedly share his concerns about the club’s recruitment and overall direction.

Football transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano also reported on Wednesday that United were considering a possible sanction against the defender.

“Lisandro Martínez not the only player at Manchester United with that view of the situation at club level. Man United assessing possible sanction/fine for Licha, as reports,” Romano wrote on X.

Martinez’s contract situation could also be a factor, with his current deal scheduled to expire in June 2027. However, United reportedly have an option to extend the agreement until 2028.

The defender subsequently reaffirmed his position in another interview, insisting that he would not “close my mouth” over his concerns and urging the club to show greater ambition.

His comments have sparked debate among supporters and football observers, with some backing his call for improvements to United’s recruitment strategy, while others believe publicly criticising the club’s leadership could affect team unity.

United have endured a difficult spell this season, with the defeat to Atletico extending their winless run to five matches.

The club are expected to face Leeds United in the Premier League on Sunday, as manager Michael Carrick looks to improve results amid growing scrutiny of United’s leadership, recruitment strategy and overall direction.