Santos Apologizes to Man United Fans, Backs Carrick Amid Criticism

Andrey Santos has issued an apology to Manchester United fans on behalf of the players following the team's recent Champions League defeat in Madrid. The Brazilian midfielder also expressed his continued support for head coach Michael Carrick, despite mounting pressure after the club's fourth loss in nine games this season.

United's 2-0 loss to Atletico Madrid at the Metropolitano stadium has intensified scrutiny on Carrick ahead of Sunday's match against rivals Leeds. The difficult night in Madrid began with United conceding a goal within the first minute of play. Following the match, defender Lisandro Martinez reportedly criticized the club's board for what he perceived as insufficient investment in the squad last summer.

"We just want to say sorry to everyone who has travelled to Spain," Santos stated after the game. "We want to win every single game, but now it's time to work hard and come back with a victory." He acknowledged the team is in a challenging period but emphasized the players' determination to improve.

When asked about the team's confidence in Carrick, Santos responded, "Yes, of course, we believe in the manager. We believe in the whole staff, we believe in (ourselves as) players. We are in a bad moment, but we have to work to change this result."

Santos recognized the intensity of playing away against a strong opponent like Atletico but stressed the importance of learning from the early setback. "We were sad to concede a goal in the first minute of the team," he said. "Bruno (Fernandes) was saying, and everyone was saying, to keep going and keep pushing. This is football, anything can happen."

He concluded by reiterating the team's commitment to hard work and improvement. "Of course, we worked hard to win this game. Like I said before, we have to work hard, push ourselves and be better and better and better."