According to a report by Metro on Thursday, October 22, 2026, Michael Carrick has responded to criticism from Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes following the club’s disappointing 4-1 Champions League defeat to Como, as pressure continues to build on the struggling manager.

Manchester United suffered another setback at the Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium, extending their winless streak to seven matches in all competitions. The Red Devils struggled to match Como’s intensity throughout the encounter, with Nico Paz scoring twice to help Cesc Fabregas’ team secure an emphatic victory.

Fernandes, who was substituted in the second half when United were trailing 3-0, expressed his concerns about the team’s failure to press effectively and maintain intensity when out of possession. His remarks drew attention to Carrick and his coaching staff, prompting questions about the tactical decisions that contributed to the disappointing performance.

However, Carrick defended his approach when asked about the Portuguese midfielder’s criticism after the match.

“We actually half pressed man-to-man in the second half and conceded from that,” the United manager said. He further explained: “If you don't run, don't run forward and you don't run back you are not going to win.”

Carrick’s comments indicate that he believes Manchester United’s difficulties extend beyond tactical issues, pointing to the players’ work rate and their ability to execute the game plan. The former midfielder emphasised that successful pressing requires collective commitment, with players moving forward together and quickly recovering their positions when possession is lost.

The disagreement is particularly significant because Fernandes is Manchester United’s captain and one of the team’s most influential players. His criticism reflects the growing frustration within the squad following another disappointing display, while Carrick’s response suggests that he expects his players to take greater responsibility for their performances.

Fernandes was replaced by Joshua Zirkzee, who subsequently scored United’s only goal late in the game. However, the strike proved to be nothing more than a consolation, as Como had already established a commanding lead through their impressive attacking display.

Manchester United were also affected by considerable injury problems, with nine first-team players reportedly unavailable for the encounter. Despite these absences, the heavy defeat has intensified concerns about the team’s organisation, intensity and ability to compete against tactically prepared opponents.

Carrick must now find a way to restore confidence and improve performances before Manchester United face Bournemouth in their upcoming Premier League fixture at Old Trafford. With the Red Devils sitting 13th in the league standings, securing a positive result has become increasingly important as the manager attempts to end the club’s disappointing run and reduce the growing pressure on his position.