Lisandro Martinez has apologised for criticising Manchester United’s squad-building strategy and club hierarchy following their Champions League defeat to Atletico Madrid, but the Argentine defender has reportedly still been punished by the club.

According to BBC Sport, United fined Martinez for losing his temper and making the comments publicly. The amount of the fine has not been disclosed.

After United’s 2-0 defeat to Atletico Madrid last Tuesday, Martinez said the club needed to invest more in the squad and provide head coach Michael Carrick with a stronger team. He also said he expected more from technical director Jason Wilcox.

Martinez later explained that his comments had come out of anger and frustration.

“Everyone knows that I am an emotional person and that I am extremely passionate about football. In the frustration of the defeat, I expressed my feelings at a time and place that perhaps were not right, and for that I apologise,” Martinez said.

The 28-year-old centre-back subsequently met with United’s leadership and Carrick. Following the meeting, he released a statement on social media describing the discussion as positive.

“Today I met with the club’s leadership and the coach. It was a very positive discussion, where we were able to exchange opinions and speak openly about what happened after Tuesday’s match,” Martinez said.

He added that the club is at its strongest when everyone remains united and acknowledged that his comments had not helped in that regard.

Despite his apology, Martinez has reportedly been fined by United. The incident has also raised questions about his long-term future at Old Trafford.

Martinez’s current contract is due to expire at the end of the season, although the club has an option to extend it for another 12 months. It remains uncertain whether United will activate that option.

Former Manchester United captain Roy Keane also criticised the situation surrounding the club, describing it as “a circus” on The Overlap podcast.

United’s performances have added to the pressure. They have collected only six points from their opening six Premier League matches and currently sit 13th in the table.

United will face Leeds United in the Premier League on Sunday. Whether Carrick selects Martinez for the match will be closely watched, while the defender’s longer-term future at Old Trafford remains uncertain.