(Photo via Manchester Evening News)
Michael Carrick has assured that he has no concerns over Lisandro Martinez’s ‘commitment’ despite the defender’s poor run of form.
Not only is Manchester United’s No.6 playing far from his best, but his reckless challenges on Saturday ultimately led to the side losing against Chelsea.
Carrick weighs in on Martinez commitment concerns
LONDON, ENGLAND - OCTOBER 31: Lisandro Martinez of Manchester United reacts as he receives a red card from Referee Peter Bankes during the Premier League 2026/27 match between Chelsea FC and Manchester United at Stamford Bridge on October 31, 2026 in London, England. (Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)
Although the hosts were already leading 1-0 at the time of the Argentine’s dismissal, his clash with Wesley Fofana in the area allowed Chelsea a direct opportunity to go 2-0 up via a spot-kick, which Cole Palmer converted.
The Blues then just had to see out the remaining half-hour of action with one extra man, with United unable to provide any response.
“No, I’ve got no concerns about commitment at all. Things happen in football,” Carrick said of his defender in today’s press conference.
“Sometimes you do things, sometimes you make a decision, sometimes you make mistakes, sometimes it goes well for you, you know. But the commitment is not an issue, for sure.”
Martinez edges closer to Old Trafford exit
LEEDS, ENGLAND - OCTOBER 18: Lisandro Martinez of Manchester United during the players warm up ahead of the Premier League 2026/27 match between Leeds United and Manchester United at Elland Road on October 18, 2026 in Leeds, England. (Photo by Michael Steele/Getty Images)
Meanwhile, reports have been suggesting that Martinez has agreed personal terms with Atletico Madrid.
He is expected to be on the move in 2027 irrespective of whether United activate his 12-month contract option, as they are ready to part ways with the injury-prone 28-year-old.
🚨📸 – Lisandro Martinez in training today.😟💤 pic.twitter.com/vIySmFcKx1 — (fan) Zaid ✍🏼🇾🇪 (@ZaidBalll) November 2, 2026
However, they would be better off utilising the one-year option so that they can receive a fee from his departure, rather than losing him for nothing.
United shelled out £46.8 million (rising to £56.7m) for Martinez in 2022, so they will be reluctant to watch him depart as a free agent.
Joining Atletico would see him link up with close friend and compatriot Cristian Romero, who made the switch to the Metropolitano from Tottenham Hotspur at the end of 2025/2026.
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MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - OCTOBER 12: Michael Carrick, Manager of Manchester United, looks on during the training session ahead of the UEFA Champions League 2026/27 League Phase MD2 at Carrington Training Ground on October 12, 2026 in Manchester, England.
MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - NOVEMBER 02: Michael Carrick, Manager of Manchester United, watches on as players warm up during the training session on MD-1 ahead of the UEFA Champions League 2026/27 League Phase MD4 at Trafford Training Centre on November 02, 2026 in Manchester, England.