Carrick keeps Martinez in United squad and rejects claims of dressing-room damage

Manchester United head coach Michael Carrick has confirmed Lisandro Martinez remains in his squad and rejected suggestions that the defender’s criticism of the club’s hierarchy has damaged the dressing room. According to BBC Sport’s Simon Stone, Carrick said United had moved on from the controversy and described the mood among his players as particularly positive at Friday’s training session.

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Martinez’s comments followed United’s 2-0 Champions League defeat by Atletico Madrid. The Argentina defender criticised the club’s leadership, drawing attention to director of football Jason Wilcox. He subsequently apologised for when he made the remarks, rather than withdrawing their substance. Former United captains Wayne Rooney, Roy Keane and Gary Neville were among those who responded publicly to the episode, with Rooney warning of its potential effect on the squad.

Speaking at United’s Carrington training ground, Carrick disputed the idea that outside commentary accurately reflected conditions within the team. He said people discussing the situation did not necessarily understand what was happening inside the club. Carrick acknowledged that emotion could lead a player to speak at the wrong moment, but maintained that the incident had not disrupted the atmosphere or the work being done within the group.

Carrick also confirmed that Martinez would be included in the squad for Sunday’s Premier League visit to Leeds. He regarded the defender’s statement and acknowledgement of a mistake as sufficient grounds to move forward. The head coach said he wanted players to show commitment and intensity, while stressing that those qualities had to be expressed appropriately and directed towards the team’s work.

Wilcox took part in the discussions with Martinez that preceded the defender’s statement, the BBC reported, although the statement did not name him. Asked whether Wilcox should publicly explain his actions, Carrick declined to prescribe what the director of football should do. He instead said he was comfortable facing questions and leading the team from his own position, emphasising shared responsibility within the club.

The dispute comes during a five-match winless run for United, who have won only one of their opening six Premier League fixtures. Carrick resisted framing the need for improved results around his own position. He said results mattered collectively and that Manchester United’s interests, history and expectations were bigger than any individual, including himself or his players.