Manchester United's return to action after a 24-day break ended in bitter frustration as a 2-1 defeat to Leeds United was overshadowed by a major refereeing controversy. Manager Michael Carrick did not hold back in his post-match assessment, branding the decision to send off defender Lisandro Martinez as "one of the worst I've seen."

The match at Old Trafford began disastrously for the hosts, with Leeds capitalizing on United's evident rustiness. Noah Okafor struck twice in the first half, exposing a disorganized United defense and putting the visitors firmly in control.

The game's pivotal moment arrived after halftime. Martinez was shown a straight red card by referee Paul Tierney following a VAR review for an incident involving Dominic Calvert-Lewin. The decision, for violent conduct after Martinez pulled the forward's hair, left Carrick and the United bench incensed.

Despite being reduced to ten men, United rallied. Casemiro's powerful header ignited hopes of a comeback, setting up a tense finale, but Leeds held firm to secure a vital three points.

Carrick's fury, however, was directed squarely at the officiating. In a fiery interview with Sky Sports, he pointed to two key incidents. First, he argued that Leeds's opening goal should have been disallowed for a foul on young defender Leny Yoro. Second, and most vehemently, he condemned Martinez's dismissal as a "shocking decision," suggesting it was part of a pattern going against his team.

"Two games in a row we've had decisions like that go against us," Carrick stated, his frustration palpable. The defeat marks only his second loss since taking temporary charge, but the nature of this setback, compounded by the contentious red card, will sting as United look to regroup.