Lisandro Martinez has moved to calm the storm at Manchester United after his explosive criticism of the club's hierarchy. However, his apology comes with an important distinction: the Argentine regrets how he delivered his message, not the frustration behind it.The defender held a meeting with Michael Carrick and senior club figures on Thursday, following his public outburst after United's 2-0 Champions League defeat to Atletico Madrid. He had questioned the club's recruitment and openly demanded more from technical director Jason Wilcox.Honesty doesn't pay: Lisandro in trouble after criticising Man UnitedTwo days later, Martinez struck a more conciliatory tone, describing his conversation with the leadership group as "very positive". In a statement on social media, he acknowledged that his emotions had got the better of him."Everyone knows that I am a passionate person and that I live football with great intensity," the 28-year-old wrote."The frustration of the defeat led me to express how I felt at a time and place that perhaps were not the right ones, and for that I want to apologise."Our club is at its best when we are all united, and I recognise that my words in that moment did not help with that."Meltdown at Man United: Amad Diallo curses as Lisandro blasts clubThere was no outright withdrawal of his criticism, however. Martinez's statement focused on the timing and manner of his comments, rather than abandoning his demand for United to strengthen the squad and compete for the biggest honours.His original remarks were among the most pointed public criticisms of the club's leadership in recent memory. Speaking after the defeat in Madrid, the centre-back said the result reflected the club’s condition and insisted more investment was needed to build a squad capable of challenging at the highest level.14.30: (3.20) Everton (3.50) Chelsea (2.20) Martinez admitted that his words had not helped the collective cause, but insisted that the focus must now return to football."With this situation now behind us, we are fully focused on winning together," he added.United sources indicated that any internal disciplinary measures would remain private, while the club considers the matter closed following the defender's public statement.