Carrick Rejects Dressing Room Division Claims Following Martínez Outburst

Michael Carrick stated the Manchester United squad is in a 'fantastic place' despite Lisandro Martínez criticizing the team's strength following a 2-0 defeat.

Manchester United manager Michael Carrick dismissed concerns of a squad rift on Friday following a 2-0 defeat to Atlético Madrid on Tuesday. The loss extended the club's winless streak to five matches. During a post-match interview, defender Lisandro Martínez aimed barbed comments at director of football Jason Wilcox and claimed the current squad lacked the quality to compete in the Champions League.

Martínez has since issued an apology for his remarks. While former United captain Wayne Rooney suggested the interview could potentially fracture the dressing room, Carrick insisted his players trained well and remained in good spirits. The 45-year-old manager stated that the situation has galvanised the group as they prepare for a Sunday fixture against Leeds United.

Carrick disputed external assessments of the club's internal atmosphere, specifically addressing comments made by former professionals. He noted that the squad is currently in a better place than he has seen for some time. The manager emphasized that the needs of the football club take precedence over individual concerns as the team seeks to end its current run of poor form.