Man United players split over Martinez rant as some believe he was protecting Carrick

Several Manchester United players reportedly believe Lisandro Martinez criticised the club’s hierarchy to protect head coach Michael Carrick, amid growing frustration over the club’s recruitment strategy.

As reported by SunSport, a dressing-room source has dismissed suggestions that the defender’s comments followed an emotional reaction to United’s 2-0 Champions League defeat by Atletico Madrid, insisting he voiced concerns shared by other members of the squad.

Martinez publicly questioned the club’s ambition after Tuesday’s defeat, arguing that United needed to strengthen the squad rather than continue changing managers. His intervention has reportedly sparked talks about a possible meeting between sporting director Jason Wilcox and the players.

Martinez questions board’s support for Carrick

Speaking after the defeat in Madrid, Martinez suggested Carrick had not received sufficient backing during the summer transfer window.

“We have to bring in more players to compete. I expect more from our technical director, I have to be honest,” the Argentine said.

He also challenged the club’s approach to addressing its problems, questioning why managers continued to bear the consequences without sufficient scrutiny of other areas.

“Changing, changing, changing manager? What about other areas? I can’t say more,” he added.

According to the report, some United players share Martinez’s concerns that the club failed to capitalise on its return to the Champions League.

The defender’s comments have therefore been interpreted by some team-mates as an attempt to redirect criticism towards the hierarchy rather than Carrick alone.

United reportedly spent £155 million on three major signings during the summer, while questions remain about whether the squad was strengthened sufficiently across all positions.

Fine threat emerges as future comes under scrutiny

Martinez could face a club fine for publicly criticising United’s leadership, with his long-term future also uncertain as discussions over a contract extension continue.

The defender’s current deal is due to expire next summer, and Wilcox, who became United’s director of football in June 2025 after previously serving as technical director, is also facing criticism over the club’s recruitment decisions.

United’s struggles have intensified pressure on Carrick, with the club reportedly recording four defeats in its opening nine matches.