Senior Man Utd stars back Lisandro Martinez as INEOS face growing pressure over Carrick’s future

According to a report by Manchester Evening News on Thursday October 15, 2026, senior Manchester United players are backing Lisandro Martinez in his dispute with the club’s INEOS leadership, while concerns grow over Michael Carrick’s future following the team’s disappointing start to the season.

According to reports, several senior players share Martinez’s concerns about United’s summer recruitment and believe the squad lacks the quality and depth required to compete for major honours.

Martinez attracted attention after reportedly criticising sporting director Jason Wilcox following United’s 2-0 Champions League defeat to Atletico Madrid. The Argentine defender expressed frustration over the club’s transfer business, with questions raised about the failure to strengthen key positions, including left-back and striker.

The report also claims that senior members of the squad fear INEOS could sack Carrick in an attempt to address the team’s poor results. Martinez has publicly backed the manager, potentially reflecting the players’ desire for stability during a difficult period.

United have reportedly won just twice in their first nine matches, while their early League Cup exit has added to the pressure surrounding Carrick. However, there has been no official confirmation that the club have decided to dismiss the former midfielder.

Meanwhile, Martinez is reportedly planning to leave Old Trafford when his contract expires in 2027 and does not want United to activate a one-year extension. The defender has also been linked with a return to Spain, with Barcelona and Atletico Madrid reportedly monitoring his situation.

Martinez later clarified his comments in a social media statement, explaining that he had spoken out of anger and frustration after the defeat. He stressed that his ambition was to see Manchester United compete for the biggest trophies and that the responsibility to improve started with him.

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