Martinez offers more than defensive aggression. His left-footed distribution helps United play out from the back, while his willingness to step forward can compress the space between defence and midfield. Replacing that profile would force Carrick to adjust either the build-up or the defensive line.
The report says Martinez was unable to continue after a challenge and had to be replaced. No confirmed diagnosis or return timeline has emerged, making the uncertainty as significant as the incident itself. That is particularly relevant given his reported return from a serious knee injury before finishing last season strongly.
Carrick’s reported success in guiding United back into the Champions League has raised expectations around his permanent tenure. The next test is maintaining defensive stability when one of his most distinctive players may be unavailable.
United have alternatives in Matthijs de Ligt, Harry Maguire and Leny Yoro, but each would offer a different balance of passing, positioning and recovery pace. Carrick could also resist changing the structure, instead asking a replacement to reproduce Martinez’s role within the same system.
That decision would depend heavily on the length of the setback. A short absence could be managed through rotation. A prolonged layoff would expose the importance of central-defensive depth and could influence United’s priorities before the transfer window closes.
The next medical update on Martinez will shape Carrick’s pre-season planning. Until a clearer timeline emerges, United must prepare for both scenarios: a quick return for their defensive leader or an early tactical reshuffle.