Wayne Rooney challenges Lisandro Martinez over Man Utd criticism

Wayne Rooney has criticised Lisandro Martinez for publicly questioning Manchester United’s recruitment, warning that his comments risk undermining his team-mates.

The former United captain was responding after Martinez called for greater backing from the club’s hierarchy following Tuesday’s Champions League defeat at Atletico Madrid.

Wayne Rooney questions Lisandro Martinez interview

Speaking on Prime Video, in comments reported by Sky Sports, Rooney said the defender should have raised his concerns privately.

“I think he has maybe gone a bit too far. That’s for the manager, and that should really stay internal.”

Rooney accepted that United needed reinforcements in defence and attack, but argued that publicly questioning the squad could damage confidence between players.

He also challenged Martinez’s own performances, suggesting the defender could find his position under threat if United strengthened.

Rooney’s concern was that the interview would add to the pressure surrounding the team when their results already demanded attention.

United face Leeds after another setback

The 2–0 defeat at Atletico extended United’s winless run to five matches. Pablo Barrios opened the scoring before Leny Yoro’s dismissal left Michael Carrick’s side with ten men.

Carrick said after the match that he had not seen Martinez’s interview and stressed the need for unity.

Questions about recruitment now accompany the problems with United’s pressing and organisation highlighted after Saturday’s draw with Tottenham.

United’s next fixture is away to Leeds on Sunday, October 18.