“The Squad Is Not Affected” - Carrick Addresses Martinez Fallout Ahead of Roses Derby
by Devesh Jaganath | by Devesh Jaganath
Michael Carrick Breaks Silence on Lisandro Martinez Rift
Lisandro Martinez became the centre of attention after Manchester United’s UEFA Champions League defeat to Atletico Madrid. The Argentine defender provided an explosive interview, criticising the club’s hierarchy, particularly Jason Wilcox, for a lack of summer investment.
While several former players and pundits like Wayne Rooney and Jamie Carragher condemned Martinez’s statement, saying that it could “rip the dressing room apart,” Michael Carrick has stressed that “the squad has not been affected.” Carrick said:
"There's a lot of people who say a lot of things - ex-pros or not ex-pros - it doesn't necessarily mean they understand what is going on here.
“Just because people talk on the outside doesn't mean that is the truth. I am telling you the truth. The squad today was in a fantastic place, better than I have seen it for a while. That is it, plain and simple. We are living it every day and know what it feels like.
"We are emotional and care a lot. Sometimes someone says something that maybe you shouldn't say at that certain time, but it doesn't distract us from what we are creating here and the environment and spirit within the group.
"The squad is not affected, I am telling you."
Martinez has since issued an apology. It is understood that the Argentine chose apologise on his own, while any disciplinary action or internal discussions will remain private between the player and the club. However, he has reportedly been fined.
The Red Devils will be in action in the Roses Derby on Matchday 7 in the Premier League this Sunday, and you can find all of the key information for the encounter in our Manchester United vs Leeds United prediction.
Martinez in Squad Against Leeds but Future at Man United Remains Uncertain
Amid the speculation around potential sanctions for his outburst in midweek, Carrick revealed that Martinez would be included in Man United’s squad for their trip to Elland Road in the Premier League on Sunday afternoon.
However, there is growing uncertainty over Martinez’s future at Old Trafford!
United are expected to focus on revamping their defence in the next transfer windows. The Argentine’s contract is set to expire next summer, and while Man United have the option to extend his term by another year, this latest incident has raised serious questions around whether the club will activate the extension.
Martinez has been keen on a move away from Old Trafford in recent times. During the off-season, it is understood that he pushed for a move to Atletico Madrid to join his compatriot and good friend Cristian Romero, who left Spurs to join Diego Simeone’s side.
