Manchester United manager Michael Carrick has refused to comment extensively on Lisandro Martinez’s criticism of the club’s leadership following their defeat to Atletico Madrid, insisting that he needs to establish the facts before deciding on his response. Martinez had on Tuesday criticised United’s director of football, Jason Wilcox, during a post-match interview, questioning the level of investment in the squad during the summer transfer window. The Argentine defender argued that Carrick should not be held responsible for the club’s disappointing start to the season, claiming that the manager had not received sufficient backing from the club’s hierarchy. United have managed just two victories in nine matches across all competitions this season, intensifying concerns about their performances and recruitment strategy. During the summer transfer window, Wilcox and chief executive officer Omar Berrada reportedly spent £155m on new additions, bringing in goalkeeper Karl Darlow and midfielders Andrey Santos, Carlos Baleba and Youri Tielemans. However, Martinez believes the recruitment was inadequate to build on the team’s achievements last season. He also called for greater scrutiny of those responsible for the club’s football operations.