Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez was sent off in the 83rd minute of a 2-0 defeat at Chelsea on 31 October 2026, leaving his side with ten men and effectively ending any chance of a comeback. Martinez, already on a yellow card, committed two fouls within 83 seconds: first a reckless elbow on Wesley Fofana during a corner, which earned a penalty and a second booking, and then a further challenge that saw referee Peter Bankes, advised by VAR James Bell, show the red card.
Carrick's reaction
United head coach Michael Carrick said he had not yet reviewed the incident but acknowledged the turning point: "The second goal and losing a man at that stage had a big influence on it, for sure." Carrick focused on adjusting his team's shape rather than confronting Martinez as the defender left the pitch.
Pundits criticize Martinez
World Cup final official Darren Cann described Martinez's actions as "inexplicable," noting he made no attempt to play the ball. Former England defender Stephen Warnock said the sending-off effectively ended the game, while former Chelsea midfielder Joe Cole stated Martinez's time at United "has run its course." Danny Murphy on BBC Radio 5 Live called Martinez a "liability" and said he would not select him again.
United's winless run deepens
The loss extends United's winless streak to nine matches in all competitions, their worst run since 1988-89, and leaves them on the brink of the relegation zone for the first time since the early Ferguson era. United must now face Roma at Old Trafford on Tuesday needing a win to keep Champions League qualification hopes alive. Martinez will serve a one-match suspension, missing the upcoming Premier League fixture against Aston Villa at Old Trafford.
