Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez has spoken out against criticism directed at Argentina following their campaign at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Martinez stated there is “no real reason” for animosity towards the national team, describing the backlash as an unjustified campaign.
Argentina experienced a 1-0 defeat to Spain in the final, with Ferran Torres scoring in extra time to secure La Roja their second World Cup title. However, the tournament was marked by ongoing debate regarding Argentina’s conduct, with some observers accusing the team of playing overly aggressively. Incidents during the final and the team’s celebrations also fueled discussions about player behavior.
Martinez expressed his annoyance regarding the criticism, telling Foot Mercato on Monday, “They say we are arrogant, but that says more about them than about us. We have always been very respectful towards every opponent we have faced.”
Controversies during the World Cup
The Argentina squad faced scrutiny for various incidents throughout the tournament. This included a FIFA investigation into a banner displayed during the team’s semi-final celebrations, which read “Las Malvinas son Argentinas” (The Falklands are Argentine).
Following the final defeat, Martinez posted on social media that “the fall of the great is the happiness of the mediocre,” which generated further discussion. Despite the controversies, the Manchester United centre-back maintained that Argentina’s players consistently showed respect to their opponents, suggesting that the criticism has unfairly influenced perceptions of the team.
The team’s conduct after the final also drew attention, particularly when players turned their backs as Spain lifted the trophy. On-field altercations during the final further contributed to the negative perception of the team.
Enzo Fernandez, a midfielder for Chelsea, also defended the team’s performance, stating that the squad represented the country “in the best possible way” despite the controversies. Fernandez was sent off late in the final against Spain after receiving a second yellow card for a challenge on Pau Cubarsi.
Martinez’s injury status
In other news, Lisandro Martinez provided a boost for Manchester United ahead of their season opener. The club is optimistic that Martinez will be available for their Premier League match against Hull City, according to The National News.
Concerns arose when Martinez left the field during the World Cup final holding his thigh, leading to fears of another prolonged absence. However, the club’s medical staff believe the issue is not serious. The 28-year-old is expected to rejoin the squad after an extended post-tournament break.
Martinez’s availability is seen as a significant lift for Manchester United as they prepare for Champions League action. The defender is set to play a role as the team looks to build on their third-place finish from last season.
Meanwhile, the situation with fellow defender Matthijs de Ligt is more complex. The Netherlands international has not played for the club since last November and missed the World Cup after undergoing a corrective procedure for a persistent back problem. The National News reports that De Ligt is not expected to return until at least the autumn.
Manchester United has been active in the transfer market, securing the signing of Andrey Santos from Chelsea for £48m and acquiring Youri Tielemans from Aston Villa by triggering his release clause. The club is also reportedly seeking a new left-back to compete with Luke Shaw, with Newcastle United’s Lewis Hall identified as a primary target.
The attacking options are also a point of interest, particularly regarding Marcus Rashford. After a loan spell at Barcelona last season, the 28-year-old is increasingly likely to return to United for the new season, as the Catalan club did not exercise their option to sign him permanently.
Depth will be crucial for United as they compete in four competitions this season. Young players Leny Yoro and Ayden Heaven are anticipated to provide defensive cover during De Ligt’s absence.
FIFA also investigated Leandro Paredes over his conduct during post-match celebrations.
Source: punchng.com
Freya Donnelly is the Sports Reporter at News-UK, covering tennis, cricket and athletics with seven years of reporting experience. She reported on Team GB through an Olympic cycle. She holds a degree in Sport and Media from the University of Brighton and completed an NCTJ diploma. Based in Brighton, she plays club cricket in the summer. “Listening is the most underrated skill in sports reporting.”
