Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez has apologised for publicly criticising the club's leadership, but he has reportedly not escaped punishment. According to BBC Sport, the Argentine centre-back has been fined by the club, although the amount has not been disclosed.

Martinez voiced his frustration with United's squad-building strategy and summer transfer investment after their 2-0 Champions League defeat to Atletico Madrid. He suggested that the club's leadership had not provided head coach Michael Carrick with sufficient support to build a competitive squad, specifically questioning the role of director of football Jason Wilcox.

Following the controversy, Martinez met Carrick and senior club officials on Thursday. After the discussions, the 28-year-old issued an apology on social media, acknowledging that his frustration had led him to express his views at an inappropriate time and in the wrong manner.

“Everyone knows that I am a passionate person and that football is my life. The frustration of the defeat led me to express how I felt at a time and place that perhaps were not the right ones, and for that I want to apologise,” Martinez said.

He described the meeting with the club's leadership and manager as positive, adding that they had openly exchanged views and discussed the events following Tuesday's defeat. He also stressed the importance of unity as the club works towards its shared ambitions.

United's performances have also been disappointing this season. They have won just two of their nine matches across all competitions. In the Premier League, they have collected six points from six games and sit 13th in the table. Their League Cup campaign also ended early with a defeat against Brighton and Hove Albion.

The loss to Atletico extended United's winless run to five matches, increasing pressure on Carrick and his players. United are scheduled to face Leeds United on Sunday, although it remains uncertain whether Martinez will feature.

Manchester United have not publicly confirmed the fine. However, BBC Sport reports that the defender has received financial punishment following his criticism of the club's hierarchy.