Overview
- Martínez was shown a second yellow and sent off for an elbow on Wesley Fofana that led to a Cole Palmer penalty in a 2-0 defeat at Stamford Bridge on October 31.
- Former players and pundits have sharply criticised his recent form and discipline, with several saying he should be dropped or sold after repeated errors this season.
- The defender publicly criticised the club’s recruitment team after a Champions League loss in mid‑October, was reportedly fined, and United have paused work on a new deal for him while conducting scouting on centre‑backs.
- Despite the problems, Martínez has continued to start because United lack ready alternatives, creating a selection dilemma for manager Michael Carrick and adding pressure on the coaching staff.
- Martínez is in the final months of his contract with a club option for a year and his situation could force a January decision that would affect United’s short‑term defensive plans and the wider squad rebuild.