Martinez Hits Back at Critics Over Argentina’s World Cup Conduct

Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez has strongly defended Argentina following criticism of the team’s behaviour during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, insisting the negative attention directed at the South American side is unfair.

Argentina’s campaign ended in heartbreak after a 1-0 extra-time defeat to Spain in the final, with Ferran Torres scoring the decisive goal.

Despite reaching the final, the team faced scrutiny from some observers who questioned their aggressive style of play and conduct during the tournament.

Martinez rejected claims that Argentina are arrogant, saying the team has always treated opponents with respect.

“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,” he told Foot Mercato.

The defender also criticised what he described as an “anti-Argentina” narrative, arguing that the team has been unfairly portrayed throughout the competition.

While controversy followed Argentina during the World Cup, Martinez maintained that the players remain proud of their performances and believe they conducted themselves appropriately.

He said much of the criticism has distorted public perception of a team that fought its way to another World Cup final.

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