Bruno Fernandes blames Michael Carrick’s tactics after United’s 4-1 Champions League loss to Como

United’s 4-1 thrashing by Como prompted captain Bruno Fernandes to fault head coach Michael Carrick’s game plan, while pressure on the manager mounts.

By Felo News Desk · Published Wed, 21 Oct 2026 22:36:23 GMT

Manchester United were beaten 4-1 by Como in a UEFA Champions League group match on 21 October 2026, and captain Bruno Fernandes publicly blamed head coach Michael Carrick’s tactics for the loss, according to both Sportskeeda and the Independent.

What happened

The match in Como saw Cesc Fabregas’ side dominate possession and intensity, scoring four goals while United managed only one. United’s defensive line featured several absentees, and the team struggled to press or retain shape, leading to a humiliating defeat that left them fifth in 11 games.

What the reports add

Sportskeeda reported that Fernandes said the staff instructed the players not to press, allowing space for Como to gain confidence. The outlet also noted United now sit 20th in the Champions League group table and will face AS Roma at home next. The Independent, citing Reuters, highlighted that the loss extended United’s winless run to seven games across competitions and that calls for Carrick’s dismissal are growing. It also mentioned United’s next Premier League fixture is against Bournemouth.

What was said

Bruno Fernandes told the Daily Mail, as quoted by Sportskeeda, “It’s a decision from the staff not to press man to man and sometimes leave space behind… sometimes when you give space to these teams they get confidence.” He added, “That’s on the manager and staff to say, not me. Sometimes you have to be braver under pressure, take the risk of pressing high and making them uncomfortable.” The Independent reported that Michael Carrick appeared “on the brink” after the thrashing, though no direct quote from Carrick was provided.

How it came about

United entered the match amid a spate of injuries and tactical criticism. Earlier this month, Carrick said he needed no reassurance ahead of the Como tie, despite seven players being unavailable (Felo coverage). The team had also suffered a 1-1 draw with Leeds United three days earlier, where Fernandes received a low player rating (Felo coverage). Prior criticism from former players such as Dwight Yorke and Wayne Rooney had also targeted Carrick’s decisions, adding to the pressure on the manager.

Key facts

Manchester United lost 4-1 to Como in the Champions League. (sportskeeda.com)
Bruno Fernandes said the team was instructed not to press, blaming staff tactics. (sportskeeda.com)
United’s winless run in all competitions extended to seven games after the defeat. (independent.co.uk)
United sit 20th in the Champions League group table after the loss. (sportskeeda.com)
Michael Carrick appeared under intense scrutiny, with calls for his dismissal growing. (independent.co.uk)