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MANCHESTER UNITED experienced their most significant Champions League loss in 32 years, heightening the uncertainty surrounding Michael Carrick’s position.
Emerging talent Nico Paz netted two goals and provided an assist as the Serie A side dominated the beleaguered Red Devils with a 4-1 victory along the rainy shores of Lake Como.
United made history by being the first team to concede within the first two minutes in consecutive major European fixtures, further fueling speculation about Carrick’s future.
Harry Maguire called for more “bravery” on Sunday, but United was left chasing shadows, failing to perform across the board and suffering an embarrassing defeat.
Depleted by the absence of eight senior players, United is now without a win in seven games across all competitions, their longest winless stretch since December 2015.
Check out how SunSport’s Katherine Walsh rated the United players against Cesc Fabregas’ team.
He was left exposed, conceding four goals, but was vulnerable from the outset. Opponents often find it easy to score sensational goals against the Belgian.
His confidence seems diminished compared to last season, as he failed to hold onto the ball on three occasions. While he wasn’t to blame for all goals, he did save a fifth.
He struggled to maintain a consistent performance. Dalot could have done better in the opposition’s box before Como struck in the opening 112 seconds.
Making poor passes when United needed to steady the game, he faced a tough match against Swiss winger Martin Baturina. He was switched to left back in the second half, but that made little difference.
Maguire dropped too deep too early and was slow to respond to the threat posed by Paz, who scored a stunning goal just two minutes in.
He was out of position for the fourth goal and was part of the defensive breakdown for the others. His performance was subpar.
Thrown into the mix after a prolonged absence with a back injury, De Ligt faced a challenging return against a lively attack.
He couldn’t keep up with the pace and was monitored closely by Carrick regarding his fitness.
Although he plays left back for Morocco, Mazraoui struggled significantly. Como’s attacking duo of Lucas de Cunha and Maximo Perrone repeatedly exploited his flank.
His failed attempt at a press for the second goal put his side in jeopardy. He seems unable to lead United toward success.
Santos lagged behind the pace and eventually received a booking for a late tackle before being substituted at halftime.
It seems Chelsea might feel satisfied for securing £50m from his sale this summer.
Mount’s pre-season connection with Santos did not translate well. He barely made an impact and seemed to drift through the first half.
He aimed to increase the intensity after the break, but United’s midfield was too open. It was a tough challenge for him in only his second start of the season.
Following two solid matches as the primary No.10, Tielemans had a disappointing outing, lacking effectiveness on the ball. His role appeared confusing in this match.
Fernandes seemed lost and frustrated in the false nine position. He expressed dissatisfaction with his teammates during the match and showed disappointment when substituted in the 60th minute.
He was visibly urging others to assist in pressing the Como defenders, but their efforts were in vain. He looks like he may be nearing the end of his time at the club.
Cunha received a berating from Carrick after just 20 minutes and had a disagreement with Fernandes after failing to track Paz for the opening goal.
After that, he became ineffective and didn’t offer the counter-attacking threat seen in other United forwards.
He struggled to make an impact as Como dominated possession and was rightfully substituted at halftime.
After two goals in three matches, Mbeumo had a frustrating game, wasting possession and delivering poor passes during a largely quiet performance. He was involved in a disorganized pressing effort.
He was booked quickly for a wild flailing arm into Paz and lost possession leading to the third goal, complicating matters for his team.
Amad provided some bright moments, including a shot that was deflected over in the 60th minute.
Zirkzee scored a consolation goal in stoppage time, offering some semblance of respectability. It was his first goal for United since December 2025.
He came into a chaotic situation at 4-0 without much opportunity to make an impact.
He received a booking immediately.
Subs not used: Darlow, Heaton, Kamason, Armer, J. Fletcher, T. Fletcher, Thompson
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