Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez has rejected criticism directed at Argentina following the team’s controversial campaign at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
However, the result was overshadowed by growing criticism of the Albiceleste’s conduct during the tournament.
The Argentine team faced accusations from some observers of playing overly aggressively, while several incidents, including those surrounding the final and the team’s celebrations during the competition, fueled debate about the players’ behavior.
Martinez, however, has described the criticism as an unjustified campaign against Argentina. “An anti-Argentina campaign? I’m a little annoyed because they have no real reason to hate us!” he told Foot Mercato on Monday.
Despite the criticism, the Manchester United center-back maintained that Argentina’s players believe they have consistently respected their opponents, arguing that the controversy has unfairly shaped perceptions of the team.
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The defender’s comments come after Argentina’s World Cup campaign was further clouded by controversy surrounding incidents involving players and officials, including a FIFA probe into a Falklands/Malvinas banner displayed during the team’s semi-final celebrations.
Martinez had also earlier responded to criticism following the final defeat, writing in a social media post that “the fall of the great is the happiness of the mediocre,” a statement that sparked further reaction.
Despite the criticism, the Manchester United center-back maintained that Argentina’s players believe they have consistently respected their opponents, arguing that the controversy has unfairly shaped perceptions of the team.
Argentina’s 2026 World Cup campaign was marked by strong performances but also controversy, with the team criticized by some observers for its aggressive style and the conduct of some players during the tournament.
The debate intensified after the Albiceleste’s 1-0 extra-time defeat to Spain in the final, which handed La Roja a historic second World Cup title, the turning back on Spain when handed in trophy in the spirit of fair play and further fueled scrutiny of Argentina’s behavior throughout the competition.
