According to a report by Metro on Monday, November 2, 2026, former Arsenal midfielder Freddie Ljungberg has criticised Lisandro Martinez following Manchester United's 2-0 Premier League defeat to Chelsea, accusing the Argentine defender of letting interim manager Michael Carrick down with his behaviour.

Manchester United suffered another disappointing result at Stamford Bridge on Saturday, extending their winless run to nine matches in all competitions and increasing the pressure on Carrick.

The visitors fell behind five minutes into the second half when Morgan Rogers broke the deadlock for Chelsea. Their situation became more difficult when Martinez received two yellow cards in quick succession, leaving United with 10 players for the remainder of the contest.

Cole Palmer subsequently converted a penalty to double Chelsea's advantage and secure all three points for the hosts. Speaking during his post-match analysis on Viaplay, Ljungberg expressed sympathy for Carrick, arguing that the players were not doing enough to support their manager during a difficult period.

The former Arsenal star singled out Martinez for his actions, suggesting that the defender had failed to consider the consequences of his behaviour for the team. Ljungberg also questioned the Argentina international's decision-making, insisting that his disciplinary problems had become a recurring concern.

The former Sweden international said he felt uncomfortable watching the defender's conduct and believed his actions had placed unnecessary pressure on Carrick. Former Manchester United goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel also criticised Martinez, questioning his performances and behaviour following the defeat.

The Dane argued that the defender's contribution had been insufficient, particularly considering his experience and achievements at international level. Schmeichel also pointed to Manchester United's defensive problems, highlighting the number of goals they had conceded during their disappointing campaign.

Meanwhile, former Liverpool midfielder Danny Murphy suggested that Martinez could struggle to regain his place in the team after completing his suspension. Murphy questioned the defender's recent performances and disciplinary record, arguing that Carrick would face a difficult decision when the Argentine becomes available again.

Martinez will now miss Manchester United's upcoming Premier League encounter against Aston Villa after his dismissal at Stamford Bridge. Before that fixture, United are scheduled to return to Champions League action against Roma.

Carrick, however, has indicated that he expects to remain in charge for the European fixture, insisting after the Chelsea defeat that his immediate priority is preparing the players for their next match.