According to a report by Manchester Evening News on Saturday, October 31, 2026, Michael Carrick should not be solely blamed for Manchester United's disappointing 2-0 defeat to Chelsea, as Lisandro Martinez's costly dismissal played a major role in the outcome of the Premier League encounter.

The defeat extended United's winless sequence to nine games across all competitions, although the team showed some improvement in their performance at Stamford Bridge.

Steven Railston, a journalist with Manchester Evening News, has argued that Carrick should not be held accountable for Martinez's irresponsible decision-making, particularly after Manchester United produced a much better display before the defender's red card.

United made an encouraging start to the contest and created several promising opportunities but failed to turn their dominance into goals.

Amad Diallo struggled to take advantage of his opportunities, wasting four major chances during the opening half. Cunha also believed he had given the visitors the lead after finishing a knockdown from Maguire, only for VAR to disallow the goal because of an offside infringement.

Nevertheless, Carrick could take encouragement from his team's improved performance following their embarrassing 3-0 loss to Bournemouth last weekend.

Manchester United had reportedly concentrated on developing their pressing strategy during Friday's training session, and the adjustments appeared to trouble Chelsea, who made several errors under pressure.

Fernandes was also restored to the starting eleven after being left out of the team against Bournemouth. The midfielder had earlier engaged in discussions with Carrick in an attempt to settle their differences following disagreements about the club's tactical approach.

Despite returning to his favoured attacking midfield role, the Portugal international failed to make a significant difference. He struggled to influence the game and wasted a promising opportunity after Mbeumo delivered an excellent pass into his path.

Chelsea eventually moved ahead through Rogers, although United remained within reach of a positive result until Martinez's unnecessary challenge changed the direction of the match.

The Argentine centre-back gave away a penalty and was dismissed after committing a reckless foul, forcing Manchester United to continue with 10 men and significantly reducing their chances of securing a comeback.

Interestingly, Martinez had previously questioned the club's board over its failure to give Carrick adequate backing. However, Railston believes the defender has not been convincing enough this season and significantly disadvantaged his teammates with his costly mistake against Chelsea.

Carrick's position has consequently become increasingly uncertain following another defeat.

Although the United hierarchy reportedly decided to give him additional time after the Bournemouth loss, Saturday's disappointing result has renewed discussions about his possible dismissal.

However, Railston maintains that the club should resist the temptation to make another premature managerial change, especially after recently deciding to keep Carrick in charge.

According to the journalist, the former Manchester United midfielder should at least be allowed to oversee Tuesday's Champions League fixture against Roma before any major decision is considered.

Railston also acknowledges that Ineos retains the authority to dismiss Carrick but believes the club should remain committed to its previous decision for now.

Meanwhile, Chelsea's impressive development under Xabi Alonso has emphasised the growing difference between the two Premier League sides. The Spaniard has helped Chelsea climb above Manchester United after previously achieving Bundesliga success with Bayer Leverkusen.

With Chelsea continuing to show signs of progress, Manchester United remain under pressure to improve their performances and rediscover the consistency required to compete at the highest level.