Lisandro Martinez has addressed his controversial interview after Manchester United's defeat to Atletico Madrid and insists he spoke out of "anger and frustration."

The Argentine defender went scorched earth following a 2-0 loss to Atleti at the Metropolitano on Tuesday night. He called out technical director Jason Wilcox and the higher-ups for not backing Michael Carrick enough in the summer as well as doubting the strength of his squad.

Wayne Rooney was among those to call out Martinez for his comments and the former United striker suggested it was premeditated and with his future in mind. The centre-back is out of contract next summer and speculation has since grown over a possible exit.

'I Want to Share Some Thoughts' - Lisandro Martinez Statement

There has been a widespread debate over Martinez's interview and whether he was right to speak out against his club's owners. It's expected that he will receive a fine as part of a punishment for his actions.

Martinez released a statement on Wednesday night clarifying his comments. He wrote on Instagram:

"Following everything that has been said about my comments yesterday, I want to share some thoughts on what I said and how I feel.

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."

Martinez has been at United since July 2022 and won the FA Cup and Carabao Cup. He insisted that he wants the Red Devils to be challenging:

"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."

After Martinez's interview, TNT Sports asked Youri Tielemans for a response to his teammate suggesting the squad hasn't been improved. The summer signing opted not to comment.

Martinez added: "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."

Martinez's interview brought back memories of Cristiano Ronaldo's sit-down expose of sorts with Piers Morgan back in November 2022. The Portuguese forward put the owners The Glazer family on blast and claimed that they don't care about the club.

Martinez's Topsy-Turvy United Spell

Martinez has for the most part held a good relationship with United fans which is why many of them supported his decision to speak his mind after the Atleti defeat. The main issue for those criticising the player is that they feel his performances don't justify his stance on the situation.

United's defeat in Madrid means they are now winless in their last five and the pressure is growing on Carrick. Their only two wins this season came against Ipswich Town in the league and Azerbaijani minnows Sabah FK in the Champions League.

Martinez's time at Old Trafford has been full of ups and downs. He's particularly struggled with injury issues but he has become one of the leaders in the dressing room.