According to a report by London Evening Standard on Sunday November 1, 2026, Joe Cole believes Manchester United should consider parting ways with Lisandro Martinez following his disastrous performance and red card during their 2-0 defeat against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.

The former Chelsea midfielder feels the Argentine defender has reached the end of his time at Old Trafford after another costly mistake contributed to United's disappointing result.

Manchester United's difficult run continued against Chelsea, extending their winless streak to nine matches. The defeat also leaves them at risk of dropping into the Premier League relegation zone before the weekend concludes.

Chelsea took the lead five minutes after the restart through Morgan Rogers. The midfielder produced an impressive individual effort as he drove forward, resisted challenges from United's defenders and finished confidently past Senne Lammens.

Martinez struggled to contain Rogers during the move and received his first yellow card shortly afterwards. The Argentine defender pulled back the England international after being beaten by his impressive run from the right flank.

His afternoon became even worse less than four minutes later. Martinez raised his forearm while attempting to challenge Wesley Fofana during a set-piece situation. Following a VAR review, the referee awarded Chelsea a penalty and sent the defender off after showing him a second yellow card.

Former Chelsea midfielder Cole criticised Martinez's performance during his commentary for TNT Sports. He acknowledged the defender's achievements with Argentina but questioned his suitability for Manchester United.

Cole suggested that Martinez's repeated involvement in costly defensive mistakes has become a major problem for the club. He also believes the defender's time at Old Trafford could be coming to an end.

Martinez's current contract expires at the end of the season, although Manchester United have the option to extend it by another 12 months.

Cole also described the sending-off as a massive mistake, suggesting Martinez lost his composure after being physically challenged and finding himself out of position.