According to a report by Manchester Evening News on Wednesday October 14, 2026, Manchester United have no immediate plans to remove Jason Wilcox from his position as director of football despite Lisandro Martinez's outspoken criticism of the club's transfer strategy following their defeat to Atletico Madrid.

The Argentine defender questioned the club's recruitment decisions after United suffered another disappointing result, suggesting that responsibility for the team's struggles should extend beyond head coach Michael Carrick.

Speaking after Tuesday's defeat in Madrid, Martinez expressed his frustration with the club's football leadership, insisting that he had expected more from Wilcox during the summer transfer window.

His comments have intensified scrutiny of United's recruitment strategy, particularly after the club's disappointing start to the season.

However, according to the Manchester Evening News, Wilcox's position remains safe for now, with the club's hierarchy continuing to back his judgement.

The former Manchester City academy director joined United as technical director in April 2024 before being promoted to director of football in June 2025.

Since then, he has developed a strong working relationship with chief executive Omar Berrada and co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, both of whom were present at the Metropolitano Stadium to witness United's latest defeat.

Ratcliffe is understood to have confidence in Wilcox's football knowledge and decision-making, making an immediate change within the club's leadership structure unlikely.

The situation is particularly sensitive given United's previous experience with former sporting director Dan Ashworth, who departed after just a few months in the role following disagreements within the club's hierarchy.

United are reportedly reluctant to make another significant change to their football leadership, especially while the club continues to search for stability on and off the pitch.

Nevertheless, Martinez's criticism has raised fresh questions about the decisions made during the summer transfer window.

United spent approximately £155 million on first-team signings, bringing in Carlos Baleba, Andrey Santos, Youri Tielemans and goalkeeper Karl Darlow.

Although the arrivals strengthened certain areas of the squad, the club failed to adequately address some important positions.

Luke Shaw remained the only natural left-back in the senior squad, while Benjamin Sesko was the only recognised striker. Both players are now injured, leaving Carrick with limited options as he attempts to turn around the team's fortunes.

United also waited too long before making an approach for Newcastle United left-back Lewis Hall, with the Magpies unwilling to sell by the time the club made its enquiry. There was also little apparent appetite to bring in additional competition or support for Sesko.

These decisions have contributed to growing frustration within the dressing room, with the report suggesting that Martinez's views have received widespread support among his teammates.

The defender's comments also appeared to underline the players' continued backing for Carrick, who is facing increasing pressure following a difficult opening to the campaign.

United had managed just two victories in nine matches across all competitions at the time of the report, leaving questions over whether Carrick has the necessary resources to deliver consistent results.

Martinez made it clear that he believed the club's executives should also be held accountable rather than allowing the head coach to shoulder the blame for the team's struggles.

Despite Wilcox retaining the backing of the hierarchy, the timing of the controversy is uncomfortable for the director of football. Alongside Berrada, he will play an important role in making recommendations about Carrick's future at Old Trafford.

Manchester United are also considering whether to take disciplinary action against Martinez for his public criticism. The club could impose a fine or a short suspension, although he is not expected to face the same consequences as former manager Ruben Amorim, who was sacked in January after publicly criticising Wilcox.