Manchester United manager Michael Carrick has revealed that Lisandro Martinez will remain in the squad for the upcoming Premier League encounter with Leeds United, following the controversy surrounding the defender’s recent comments.
Speaking to journalists ahead of the match, Carrick said the issue had been addressed within the club and there was no reason to allow it to affect the team’s preparations.
He also played down suggestions of tension in the dressing room, insisting that the players were in good spirits and had delivered an impressive training session.
According to Carrick, Martinez had accepted responsibility for his actions, allowing the club to move forward without further distractions.
The United manager said the atmosphere among the players remained positive despite the attention surrounding the incident.
When asked whether Martinez would still be available for upcoming matches, Carrick gave a clear response: “Yes, he is part of the team.”
The controversy attracted further attention after Martinez made comments involving United’s technical director, Jason Wilcox. During the press conference, reporters questioned whether the defender’s subsequent statement had sufficiently addressed the situation.
Carrick, however, insisted that the player’s acknowledgement of his mistake was enough to settle the matter.
“For all of us, that’s enough to move forward,” he said.
The manager also challenged the idea that reactions from outside the club accurately represented what was happening among the players, stressing that the team was focused on football rather than public debate.
Carrick admitted that players sometimes speak out of emotion, especially when they care deeply about their team. However, he said such feelings must be communicated appropriately.
He maintained that the incident had not damaged the team’s unity and suggested that the experience had brought the squad closer together.
The United boss further pointed to the players’ response during recent difficult matches as evidence of their determination, although he acknowledged that the results had not met expectations.
With the matter now considered settled internally, Manchester United will turn their attention to Leeds United as they look to improve their recent performances. Martinez is expected to be available for selection.
