Michael Carrick’s Manchester United suffered a dreadful 4-1 defeat away to Como in the Champions League on Wednesday night, stretching their winless run to seven matches. The result heaps further pressure on Carrick and his squad as their difficult start to the season continues, outworked and outclassed by a well-organized Italian side.
Defensive Woes and Early Setbacks
The visitors fell behind just two minutes into the match, becoming the first English side ever to concede in back-to-back Champions League games so early. Nico Paz opened the scoring for the hosts by curling a shot into the top corner after being given too much space by Harry Maguire. United struggled defensively throughout, appearing static in midfield and frequently losing their markers.
Como doubled their advantage shortly after the interval when Paz set up Tasos Douvikas, who easily slipped away from Matthijs de Ligt to score within four minutes of the second half. De Ligt was making his first start in 325 days following back problems, returning amid a heavy injury list at the club. Paz added a third goal himself in the 57th minute, intercepting possession from Carlos Baleba in his own half and racing forward to finish.
Jacobo Ramon made it four for the home side in the 76th minute, heading in unmarked following another sweeping attacking move. Joshua Zirkzee scored a consolation goal for United in stoppage time by controlling a cross from Amad Diallo, leaving the visitors with just three points from their opening three matches in the competition.
Pundit Reaction and Upcoming Fixtures
Sky Sports pundit Paul Merson stated that people still judge the club by past standards, noting that the team is far from matching the eras of Wayne Rooney and Cristiano Ronaldo. Merson added that the result was not a shock given the current squad’s performances.
Manchester United will look to bounce back when they return to domestic action, hosting Bournemouth in the Premier League on Sunday.
Source: SkySports | News
