Man United’s Captain Questions Carrick’s Tactics Suffer Heavy Defeat to Como
Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has criticised Michael Carrick’s tactical approach following the Red Devils’ disappointing 4-1 defeat to Como in the Champions League on Thursday, October 22. The Portuguese midfielder questioned the team’s passive approach, arguing that United have struggled to find solutions during their recent run of poor results.
The match at Stadio Giuseppe Sinigaglia saw Como claim a convincing victory through goals from Nico Paz, who scored twice, Anastasios Douvikas and Jacobo Ramon. Manchester United managed only a late consolation through Joshua Zirkzee, leaving Carrick’s side with their fifth defeat in their last 11 matches across all competitions.
The result has intensified the frustration surrounding Old Trafford, with questions mounting over both the team’s recruitment strategy and its performances on the pitch. Earlier, defender Lisandro Martinez had criticised sporting director Jason Wilcox, expressing concerns about the club’s decision-making in the transfer market. Fernandes has now added to the growing scrutiny by questioning why United have appeared so reluctant to take the initiative during matches.
Speaking after the defeat, Fernandes suggested that Carrick’s instructions had prevented United from pressing aggressively when opportunities arose. According to the captain, the team repeatedly allowed opponents to dictate the tempo rather than attempting to disrupt their play.
“The decision comes from the manager not to press when there is space to do so. We seem to be waiting for the opposition to make their move. Against Como, however, giving them that space only increased their confidence. That approach comes from the manager; it is not my decision,” Fernandes said, as reported by the Daily Mail.
The United captain also indicated that Carrick had previously been advised to adopt a more aggressive approach when opponents apply pressure. Against Como, Fernandes felt the tactical imbalance was particularly evident, pointing out that an opposition defender was able to mark him tightly, while United failed to impose similar restrictions on Como’s players.
The visitors were also left chasing the game after conceding an early goal, continuing a worrying pattern that has repeatedly undermined their performances. For Fernandes, United’s inability to respond positively to such setbacks has become a significant concern.
“This is not the first time we have conceded early in a match. We do not apply enough pressure or make the right movements. Conceding early makes us feel as though we have already lost, and it becomes difficult to convince ourselves to be braver. Too many things are simply not going according to plan,” he added.
The defeat leaves Manchester United 20th in the Champions League standings, with just three points from their opening three matches. Como, by contrast, have collected six points from the same number of games and currently occupy ninth place, strengthening their hopes of progressing further in the competition.
Carrick now faces mounting pressure to address his team’s tactical shortcomings and restore confidence within the squad. United’s immediate focus will shift back to domestic football, with Bournemouth scheduled to visit Old Trafford on Sunday, October 25.
After another difficult European night, the challenge for Carrick will be to find a more convincing approach before Manchester United’s struggles become even more costly. Fernandes’ public criticism has only increased the pressure on the manager to deliver a response.
