Manchester United have had a tough week, another one. It was marked by the vitriolic exit of Lisandro Martínez after the defeat on the field of Atlético de Madrid (2-0) in the Champions League. The Argentine defender questioned the action of his management during the transfer window and criticized it for its too low investments. This news has dominated the last few days at Old Trafford. The reigning vice-world champion got away with a warning and a fine. The club needs him to face the next challenges, as it needs its best players.
He will be in the squad to face Leeds (7th in the Premier League) this Sunday (3 p.m.), like Bruno Fernandes. This is Manchester United’s other big problem at the start of the season. Crowned best player in the championship last year, notably beating the record for assists (21 in 35 matches played, plus 9 goals), the captain of the Red Devils is going through a worrying period of poor form, while Manchester United is struggling to find its cruising speed. He was already disappointed after Tottenham last Saturday (1-1). Some even see it as revealing the difficulties encountered by Michael Carrick’s group.
Longest drought in over a year
On the eve of the trip to Spain, the English club reported a slight injury to their midfielder without this calling into question his participation in the match. His performance at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano tends to prove the opposite. He has not escaped criticism. “ Often United’s savior, Fernandes is currently the scourge of his team. The problem ? If he doesn’t contribute offensively, he contributes almost nothing. It’s clear that his role and qualities are not to fight for the ball, but United’s fragility means they can’t afford to rely on passive players either », tackle Sky Sports. His behavior towards Phil Foden during the Manchester derby had already been singled out.
Could the 32-year-old make a stint on the bench? From a statistical point of view, this is not unthinkable. He has certainly scored 4 goals (1 assist) in nine matches in all competitions this season, but is on a 4-game drought. This is his longest streak since the spring of 2025. Also, this choice may seem risky given his past in the team and his contribution. His susceptibility could resurface and ultimately harm Carrick, who is already in the eye of the storm. Mason Mount or Matheus Cunha have the ability to develop in his position.
An extension called into question?
Listening to the English coach at a press conference, he will not make any individual case. “ I don’t need results. We all need results. It’s not about me. Manchester United are bigger than one individual, so please don’t think about me every day. It’s not about a specific player. It’s about this club and its history. » The match at Leeds is already important for his personal future, but also for Bruno Fernandes, who began negotiating his contract extension (2027 + 1 year option) at the end of the summer. This is not yet acquired…
