Brief

Manchester United manager Michael Carrick downplays squad unrest after Martínez criticism

Carrick says United’s players are united and training well after Martínez’s public call for more investment.

By Felo News Desk · Published Sat, 17 Oct 2026 04:28:22 GMT

Manchester United manager Michael Carrick told reporters on Sunday that the squad feels "really good" and that the team has moved on quickly after defender Lisandro Martínez publicly criticised director of football Jason Wilcox.

What happened

United entered the new season with a poor start, having earned six points from six league games and recently suffered a Champions League defeat to Atlético Madrid. On Tuesday, Martínez said he expects "more [investment], 100%" and urged Wilcox to do his job. The comments came ahead of United’s match at Elland Road against Leeds United.

What the reports add

The Guardian notes that Carrick’s remarks came during a press conference where he was asked to address the "drama" surrounding Martínez’s remarks. Carrick described the atmosphere in the dressing room as positive, saying the players have trained well and that the squad is in a "fantastic place".

What was said

"It’s really not a drama for us as a group," Carrick said. "The boys have trained really well. This morning there was a really good feeling around the squad … so we’ve moved on pretty quickly."

He added, "I’m telling you the truth when I say that… The squad today was in a fantastic place, better than I’ve seen it for a while, actually, and that’s it, plain and simple."

How it came about

United’s difficulties follow a season that began with their poorest start since 1986 and an early exit from the Carabao Cup. Carrick, who secured a third‑place finish as caretaker last season, signed a two‑year deal to remain as head coach 48 hours after that achievement. The current pressure on his position intensified after a 1‑1 draw with Tottenham and a loss to Atlético Madrid, prompting Martínez’s public comments about the club’s recruitment policy.

Key facts

Manchester United have six points from their first six league games. (theguardian.com)
Lisandro Martínez said he expects "more [investment], 100%" from director Jason Wilcox. (theguardian.com)
Michael Carrick described the squad’s mood as "really good" and "fantastic". (theguardian.com)
United were eliminated from the Carabao Cup and lost to Atlético Madrid in the Champions League. (theguardian.com)