Full Breakdown
Manchester United Moves On From Lisandro Martínez Outburst
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event
On October 13, 2026 Manchester United lost 2-0 to Atlético Madrid in the Champions League. The comments sparked a media storm, led to a club-imposed fine and a public apology posted on Instagram the following Thursday. At the pre-match press conference on October 16, 2026, manager Michael Carrick declared the matter “done” and affirmed that Martínez would be selected for the Premier League fixture at Leeds United on October 18, 2026.
Background & Context
United’s season has begun poorly: six points from six league games – the club’s worst start since 1986 – and a 13th-place standing. The summer window saw a £155 million outlay on midfield (Andrey Santos, Youri Tielemans, Carlos Baleba) but no backup left-back or second striker. Injuries to left-back Luke Shaw, midfielder Kobbie Mainoo and striker Benjamin Sesko have left the squad thin, intensifying Martínez’s criticism of recruitment. His contract expires at season’s end, with United holding an option to extend for a further year.
Data & Statistics
- League points: 6 / 18 (worst start since 1986).
- Injuries: Shaw (thigh), Mainoo (knock), Sesko (shin recurrence).
- Transfer spend: £155 million on midfield; net spend ? £99 million after sales.
- Champions League result: 2-0 defeat (Atlético Madrid) on October 13, 2026.
Official Statements & Responses
Martínez’s Instagram post described a “very positive conversation” with club leadership, acknowledging his earlier remarks were made in anger and that he “lives football with great intensity”. The club confirmed he was fined but did not disclose the amount.
Criticism & Opposition
Former United captain Roy Keane called the episode “a bit of a circus”, suggesting the outburst reflected broader chaos at the club.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Early reports (e.g., BackpageFC) said Martínez issued a statement without an apology; later sources (The Guardian, Manchester Evening News) reported a full apology on Instagram. The exact size of the fine remains undisclosed.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I expect more [investment], 100%. I expect more from our technical director [Wilcox]. As players we have to do more but it is also important when you make a strong squad to be ready for this kind of night. Last season we did everything, we created the base to create an amazing team.” — Lisandro Martínez
- “He's released his statement and realised he made a mistake.” — Michael Carrick
- “We'll see on Luke and Kobbie,” — Michael Carrick
What’s Next
United face Leeds United at Elland Road on October 18, 2026. Carrick will confirm the fitness of Shaw and Mainoo closer to kickoff, while Sesko remains under medical review. The club must also decide whether to activate the one-year extension on Martínez’s contract before the summer window closes.