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Michael Carrick responds to Lisandro Martinez's 'attitude' and Man Utd sack decision

Manchester United manager Michael Carrick spoke to the media ahead of a must win Champions League clash against Roma

Michael Carrick speaking in a press conference

Michael Carrick spoke to the press ahead of Manchester United's game against Roma(Image: BBC)

Michael Carrick has insisted the attitude of Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez should not be questioned. Carrick also stated he is not thinking about his future as manager of the club, despite still being under huge pressure

His side face Roma at Old Trafford in the Champions League, in what looks like a pivotal match. United were rocked by another disappointing result on the weekend, when they lost 2-0 to Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.

In the first half, United put in one of their best halves of football this season and were a marginal offside call away from going into half-time with a 1-0 lead. But after Morgan Rogers scored for the Blues in the second half, Martinez gave away a penalty and earned himself a needless second yellow card when he struck Blues defender Wesley Fofana in the face while defending a corner. Cole Palmer went on to convert the spot-kick and put the game beyond United.

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After the match, Martinez was widely criticised for his petulance. Despite it all but ending any hope of United getting a result in west London, Carrick still supported the Argentine.

When asked about Martinez, he said: "I've got no concerns about commitment at all. Things happen in football, sometimes you make mistakes, sometimes it goes well for you, but commitment is not an issue, for sure."

It was the last thing Carrick needed considering his own fragile future at United. The loss to Chelsea left the Red Devils in 17th position, just one point above the relegation zone.

Michael Carrick (2R) speaks with Manchester United's assistant coach Steve Holland (R) as Manchester United's Argentinian defender #06 Lisandro Martinez leaves the pitch

Michael Carrick didn't look at Lisandro Martinez as he left the pitch(Image: AFP/Getty Images)

Reports understand Carrick will remain as manager at least until the start of the November international break, which begins after this weekend's set of fixtures. While his days at United look numbered, Carrick, when asked if he feels like a manager with just two coaches left, replied: "No, not at all (feels like a coach with two games left).

"You never know what is going to happen in the future, but that doesn't change the way I feel. I can't wait for the game tomorrow. You might think I'm crazy with the results we've had, but I can't wait for it."

He also insisted United can still turn their poor performances around and pick up points. He added: "I know what we are capable of as a team and as a group. We have showed it in spells and bursts, showing it the other day.

Michael Carrick, Manager of Manchester United, reacts 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

Carrick has endured a wretched few weeks as United manager(Image: 2026 Getty Images)

"We were in a really position going into the second half against Chelsea. We know what we are capable of. We are close but need to act on it quickly. We have two great games this week. A great opportunity to attack the game and make it a good night."

After Roma, United also host Aston Villa this weekend at Old Trafford. United only have one Premier League victory this season, when they overcame newly-promoted Ipswich Town 5-2 at Old Trafford.

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