Steven Gerrard Claims Lisandro Martinez is Forcing Manchester United Exit
Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard believes that defender Lisandro Martinez is deliberately causing problems behind the scenes to engineer a transfer away from Manchester United during the January window. The 28-year-old Argentine defender recently received a red card as the club extended their winless run to nine matches following a 2-0 defeat against Chelsea.
The mounting pressure at Old Trafford has amplified scrutiny surrounding the squad's internal dynamics. Gerrard pointed to a combination of controversial public remarks and declining on-field performances as clear indicators that the defender is seeking a swift departure from the club.
Why Steven Gerrard Believes Lisandro Martinez Wants Out
Speaking on a media discussion platform, Gerrard stated that he would not be surprised if the centre-back was actively plotting an exit strategy with his representatives. The former England midfielder noted that players often resort to disruptive behavior when they have decided they want to leave a club mid-season.
"That's possible. I've seen that happen before, so I wouldn't be surprised by that," Gerrard remarked. He suggested that during private discussions at home, the player might conclude that forcing the issue is the most effective route to securing a move away from Manchester.
Gerrard also highlighted recent displays on the pitch, describing the defender's performances over preceding weeks as shocking. He argued that the actions seen during the match against Chelsea reflected poorly on the player's commitment to the team.
The Fallout From the Chelsea Defeat and Red Card Incident
The situation escalated significantly during the fixture against Chelsea, where the Argentine defender was sent off following a reckless challenge. This moment of indiscipline leaves the former Ajax player facing a mandatory Premier League suspension.
United chief Michael Carrick has publicly insisted that he maintains no concerns regarding the commitment of the player. However, pundits and supporters alike have questioned that stance given the visible frustration and subsequent disciplinary trouble on the field.
Gerrard did not hold back in his assessment of the dismissal, stating that the actions let down the supporters, the coaching staff, and the entire squad. He characterized the behavior as entirely selfish and driven by ego rather than team needs.
Broader Disciplinary Concerns and Internal Conflict at Old Trafford
The recent red card compounds an already turbulent period for the defender, who previously faced fierce criticism from United cult hero Nicky Butt after waving a Falkland Islands banner during international celebrations at the World Cup. Furthermore, the player launched a scathing verbal attack on director of football Jason Wilcox in explosive interviews last month.
Gerrard emphasized that the defender walked off the pitch shaking his head as if he were the victim, rather than accepting responsibility for his actions. According to the former midfielder, this attitude signals deeper issues within the club's dressing room.
"It's not going to change for United. It's going to carry on, because I think they've got a couple of bad eggs in that group. That's my opinion," Gerrard added.
Impact on Manchester United and Premier League Standing
The combination of poor form, internal friction, and key suspensions places Manchester United in a precarious position. Gerrard warned that the presence of individual players acting against the collective interest puts the team in serious danger.
While acknowledging that there is enough talent within the squad to turn results around, Gerrard noted that a single player can undermine all tactical preparation. He described the situation as alarming for a club struggling to break out of a prolonged winless streak in the domestic league.
