By Adegboyega Adeleye Former Manchester United captain Roy Keane says Lisandro Martinez’s public criticism of the club’s hierarchy reflects the “chaos” surrounding the Premier League side. According to the BBC, Keane described United as being “like a bit of a circus” following Martinez’s comments about the club’s failure to strengthen its squad during the summer transfer window.
Martinez spoke out after United’s 2-0 defeat by Atletico Madrid in the Champions League on Tuesday, criticising the club’s recruitment and demanding more from its leadership. The Argentine defender said he expected more from director of football Jason Wilcox and the club’s hierarchy following United’s qualification for the Champions League.
Speaking on The Overlap’s Stick to Football podcast, Keane questioned the timing of Martinez’s remarks, particularly given the defender’s own performances and United’s difficult run. “There will be some fans saying it’s great and some saying you’re letting the team down, especially from a player who hasn’t been at his best, when the team is struggling,” Keane said.
He added that the club appeared divided and criticised the atmosphere surrounding United. “They’re obviously not together. It is chaotic there from the top to the bottom. We go there on match days and I don’t like the feeling around the club,” Keane said.
He continued: “I think as a reflection of the club, it’s obviously chaos there, like a bit of a circus.” Keane also questioned players who publicly criticise their clubs during difficult periods, arguing that they should first examine their own performances.
“When you’re going through a difficult spell like United are, the issue I have with certain players saying things is you always have to start with the man in the mirror before you start coming out with all these comments,” he said. Martinez later said on social media on Wednesday