Manchester United conceded early at Atletico Madrid and fell 2-0, and the defeat was followed by something arguably worse: defender Lisandro Martínez publicly criticizing executives, including Jason Wilcox, for their poor summer work. The club looks in disarray from top to bottom, and manager Michael Carrick is under pressure to turn things around.
Tom Hamilton argues the outcome depends on how reactive the executives are and how confident they are in their plan. United have a striking habit of making poor decisions on and off the pitch, but having backed Carrick with a two-year contract in May, sacking him makes little sense unless a ready replacement is lined up. Martínez's point about recruitment has merit: the club still lacks left-back cover and a reliable 20-goal-a-season striker. Of the summer signings, only Carlos Baleba looks an upgrade on last season's options.
Gab Marcotti sees Martínez as part of the problem, citing his defense of Dominic Solanke, but his words could also be part of the solution. He reads them as more than unhappiness over transfers. There is a sense of drift at Old Trafford, and that is hard to justify given Carrick has been in charge for less than a year. Carrick's calm message about building on a strong finish and needing time only goes so far. Someone needs to offer accountability, explaining the summer choices and the long-term plan.
The pressure is building. If the team continues to underwhelm, despite a relatively kind fixture list, a reckoning looks likely, and the identity of any fall guy will be closely watched.
Source: ESPN Soccer · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing