The reaction follows public comments by defender Lisandro Martinez after United’s 2-0 Champions League defeat at Atletico Madrid on Tuesday. In post-match interviews Martinez said: “I expect more [investment]. 100 %. I expect more from our technical director.

"I have to be honest, as players we have to do more but it is also important when you make a strong squad to be ready for this kind of night. Tonight it is easy to [blame] the coach, easy to say the players but also we have to see other areas.”

Martinez later apologised for the timing and setting of his remarks but did not withdraw the substance of the criticism. Reports suggest several senior players share his concerns about squad depth.

United have taken only six points from their opening six Premier League matches — their worst start in 40 years — and have already exited the Carabao Cup.

Wilcox, 55, joined United as technical director in April 2024 from Southampton and was promoted to director of football in June 2025 after Dan Ashworth’s departure.

Club sources have confirmed that Wilcox retains the full backing of minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe and chief executive Omar Berrada, and that his position is not under threat.

In the summer transfer window United spent around £155-160 million, focusing on midfielders Carlos Baleba, Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans, plus goalkeeper Karl Darlow. No major defensive signings were made despite ongoing fitness issues for left-back Luke Shaw and limited options at centre-back.

Wilcox previously came under scrutiny in January when manager Ruben Amorim was dismissed a day after criticising the sporting hierarchy following a draw at Leeds.

Reports at the time pointed to tensions over tactical input from the football department.

United face Leeds United away in the Premier League on Sunday.