Martínez pressures Carrick after United's Champions League loss

Lisandro Martínez has publicly criticised the leadership, manager Michael Carrick, after Manchester United's Champions League defeat to Atlético Madrid. The Argentine defender focused in an interview on technical director Jason Wilcox and demanded more commitment during the recent transfer summer.

Critics of the technical staff

Martínez, who plays for United, said that Wilcox should have done more to strengthen the squad. He emphasized that the club had laid a strong foundation last season, but that the current playing group must deliver more to achieve results.

The former Ajax player explained that it was “very bad” how the club is performing now, and that expectations are higher after a “fantastic” previous season. He demanded one‑hundred percent commitment from the technical director and more quality in the squad to survive evenings like the one against Atlético.

Club responses

Wayne Rooney responded with disapproval to Martínez’s remarks and called them disrespectful towards teammates. Carrick, on the other hand, showed understanding: he admitted that the defeat was disappointing, but emphasized that the club must continue to work together and keep training hard.

Atlético Madrid expose Manchester United's crisis under Carrick

United had a strong finish last season under Carrick, who took over from Rúben Amorim, who was dismissed earlier this year. The 45‑year‑old former player then signed a two‑year contract, but the current start of the season is extremely difficult; United have not won any of the last five matches.

Martínez indicated that it is easy to place the blame on the coach, but that other departments must also be looked at. He concluded that the club needs a stronger squad to remain competitive in the Premier League and the Champions League.

Criticism of Carrick is increasing, and a crisis at Old Trafford is already being signaled early in the season. Martínez’s statements show that players are aware of the current problems and are setting higher demands on both the technical staff and the playing group.