Manchester United’s season has fully turned around under Michael Carrick, and UEFA Champions League qualification could be on the cards. A 2-0 win over Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday (February 7th) means the Red Devils sit fourth, five points clear of sixth-placed Liverpool with 13 games remaining.
Nearly all of Carrick’s squad have been at their best since he replaced Ruben Amorim at the start of January. That includes Lisandro Martinez, who spent the majority of Amorim’s reign on the sidelines but returned in the latter stages of his tumultuous spell in charge.
Martinez hasn’t been on the losing side just once in 13 league outings. He has been crucial and was particularly impressive in the win against Spurs, which was the team’s fourth victory on the bounce.
Barcelona interested in Manchester United’s Martinez
The Argentine defender’s form hasn’t gone unnoticed, and Barcelona are reportedly admirers of the 28-year-old. His contract expires in the summer of 2027, which puts slight pressure on Manchester United to begin talks about a renewal.
According to CaughtOffside, Barca are a “confirmed suitor,” but there’s no panic at Old Trafford. The club deems the 28-year-old ‘not for sale’ as he enjoys his fourth year in Manchester.
It is suggested that Martinez could be “open to the move,” which has given the La Liga giants optimism about a potential deal. He joined the Reds from Ajax in the summer of 2022 in a £56.7 million deal and has won the FA Cup and the Carabao Cup.
Martinez has made 14 appearances across competitions this season, helping his side keep three clean sheets. He set the record for most passes made by a Premier League player this campaign against Spurs (103).
Manchester United can’t let Martinez go
Martinez, dubbed “world class”, has put his injury struggles behind him to reclaim his status as one of the most highly-rated defenders in the Premier League. His ball-playing abilities, along with his aggressive defensive approach, have been on display ever since he returned to action.
It’s understandable why Barca are interested in the 2022 World Cup winner, given his exploits as of late. He isn’t just thriving under Carrick but putting in performances that are helping his side defensively and in attack.
United would be foolish to consider selling the Argentine and should prioritise keeping him over Harry Maguire. 32-year-old’s contract expires this summer, and the English centre-back will have to take a wage cut to extend his stay at Old Trafford.
Martinez loving life under Carrick
Manchester United have a decision to make at the end of the season regarding whether to appoint a new permanent manager or offer the job to Carrick. The English coach has already exceeded expectations, overseeing wins over Manchester City at Old Trafford (2-0) and Arsenal at the Emirates (3-2).
Carrick’s appointment has immediately lifted the mood in the dressing room, and Martinez spoke glowingly of his impact. The Argentine explained how the Englishman differs from his predecessor, Amorim:
“Different mentality, different guy. So different. When you have a coach like Michael Carrick, who really knows, who really can share with you the energy of the club and what it means, it’s so different. He was quiet [in training]. He was smiling. He was really confident—and that helps a lot.”
Carrick clearly has the players on board regarding his philosophy and vision for the team. His potential permanent appointment could play an important factor in Martinez’s future if Barca do come calling.
