At Old Trafford, concern around Michael Carrick's situation continued as Manchester United had been struggling on and off the pitch in recent weeks, with their 4-1 Champions League defeat against Como their seventh match without a win in all competitions. At the same time, Diego Leon's agent said a loan move could be sought if there is no first-team plan for the player between December and January.
Concern inside Manchester United
Football365 said Manchester United's hierarchy were concerned over a potential player mutiny at Old Trafford under Michael Carrick. Football Insider claimed the Manchester United board were concerned about a stream of negative outbursts against the club from their own players.
Journalist Pete O’Rourke told Football Insider: "The Man United board have got to be concerned about the recent negative comments being made public."
Public criticism from players
Lisandro Martinez came out after a recent Champions League loss to Atletico Madrid, criticising the Manchester United board for not supporting Carrick in the summer. Bruno Fernandes was critical of the way Carrick and his coaching staff set up Manchester United against Como in their most recent match.
Journalist Pete O’Rourke told Football Insider: "That’s been reflected on the pitch, with Bruno Fernandes questioning the tactics as well, and obviously we had Lisandro Martinez questioning the recruitment and hierarchy."
Replacement talk around Carrick
Football365 said Manchester United were sounding out potential replacements for Michael Carrick.
Journalist Pete O’Rourke told Football Insider: "When you’ve got this dissent that’s going on within the camp right now, and then previous situations with Erik ten Hag, it doesn’t paint a real good picture of Manchester United."
Leon camp sets out position
Diego Leon was signed in the summer of 2025. Renato Bittar told ABC Deportes: "If there isn’t a plan to break into the first team between December and January, we’ll look for a way out for him. A loan somewhere where he can compete, get playing time, and return to Manchester."
He added: "The Championship is an option, as are other European leagues, but we don’t want to leave here. He’s performing well with the U21 team, he’s training well, and his physical condition is excellent."