Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez was sent off for pulling the hair of Leeds United striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin during a heated Premier League clash at Old Trafford, with manager Michael Carrick branding the decision "one of the worst" he has ever witnessed.
The incident occurred in the 56th minute with United already trailing 2-0. After an off-the-ball tussle, Martinez was shown a straight red card by referee Paul Tierney following a VAR review. The official announced to the stadium that Martinez was "guilty of pulling his hair - violent conduct."
Carrick was furious in his post-match comments, stating:
"That decision was one of the worst I've ever seen. He [Calvert-Lewin] can throw his arms in Licha's [Martinez's] face - and then he's sent off. Shocking. I don't even know what it looks like. It's not a pull, it's not a tug, it's not aggressive. He touches it and he gets sent off."
The manager suggested the club might appeal the decision, which carries a three-match suspension for the Argentine defender.
Calvert-Lewin offered his perspective on the controversial moment:
"I felt my hair get pulled, told the ref, he makes the decisions. Unfortunate for [Martinez], whether he's meant it or not. I hold no grudges."
Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes declined to comment on the officiating, while Leeds manager Daniel Farke acknowledged the incident but focused on his team's performance in their 2-1 victory.
The dismissal adds to Manchester United's defensive concerns as they navigate a challenging period in their season.