Carrick says Martínez recognises that he made a mistake with his comments and understands the matter has been addressed. Other reports have said the defender apologised and held talks with Carrick and technical director Jason Wilcox.
That does not guarantee the episode will disappear entirely. Criticism of a club hierarchy carries more weight than a routine dressing-room disagreement, particularly after a European defeat. But the manager’s decision to include Martínez for Leeds gives United a clear route towards closure.
The squad call-up is significant, although it should not be confused with confirmation that Martínez will start.
United travel to Leeds with the focus likely to be split between the defensive selection and the reaction to Atlético’s result. Martínez’s presence gives Carrick another experienced option at centre-back, while also allowing the manager to show that selection decisions will be based on football rather than public tension.
For Martínez, the trip offers a chance to answer the controversy through his performance. A composed display would do more to settle the story than another statement, particularly if United can improve their defensive organisation after conceding control in Europe.
The defeat to Atlético created the backdrop for the dispute; the Leeds fixture will determine whether United can move beyond it. Carrick has addressed the off-field problem, but the team still needs a result and a sharper performance to restore momentum.
Martínez’s involvement will therefore be one of the main storylines to watch when United next take the field.