Carrick Voices Frustration Over Refereeing Amid United's Defensive Woes Ahead of Chelsea Clash
Michael Carrick has voiced deep disappointment over recent refereeing decisions that have left Manchester United without key defenders Harry Maguire and Lisandro Martinez for their crucial match against Chelsea. The third-placed Red Devils are eager to secure a place in next season’s Champions League, currently holding a seven-point lead over sixth-placed Chelsea ahead of their encounter at Stamford Bridge on Saturday evening. The suspensions of Maguire and Martinez worsen an already difficult defensive situation, compounded by the long-term absence of centre-back Matthijs de Ligt. Lisandro Martinez received a red card during Monday’s 2-1 defeat to Leeds, incurring a three-game ban for violent conduct. Harry Maguire missed the Leeds match due to a red card against Bournemouth, resulting in an additional one-game ban this week. Carrick did not hold back regarding the officiating, stating, "Massively disappointed, of course... there’s not much we can react to." He previously described the decision to send off Martinez as "one of the worst I’ve seen," and while United considered an appeal, Carrick confirmed that Martinez would be unavailable for the Chelsea fixture. Further complicating matters, Leny Yoro reportedly suffered an injury and was not seen traveling with the squad, while Patrick Dorgu continues his recovery from a hamstring injury sustained in January. However, Kobbie Mainoo, who missed the Leeds match due to a training issue, was included in the traveling group. Carrick provided an update on the injured players, noting Dorgu's positive rehabilitation progress and Mainoo's potential return, stating, "He’s done a little bit, so there’s a decision to be made there."
Source: The Independent Sport - 2026-04-17