According to a report by GOAL on Thursday, October 22, 2026, Manchester United players have been given a scheduled day off following their humiliating 4-1 Champions League defeat to Como, as manager Michael Carrick faces growing pressure after another disappointing performance.

The first-team squad are expected to return to training on Friday after being granted Thursday off to recover from their trip to Italy.

United’s flight landed in Manchester in the early hours of Thursday following Wednesday’s heavy defeat against Cesc Fabregas’ Como side. The day off had been planned in advance as part of the club’s recovery schedule ahead of Sunday’s Premier League clash with Bournemouth.

However, the result has increased scrutiny of Carrick and his players, with tensions reportedly emerging in the dressing room after the final whistle.

United captain Bruno Fernandes openly criticised the team’s tactics following the defeat, raising concerns about their approach to the match.

Carrick subsequently responded by questioning the players’ running and overall work rate, suggesting that the team’s struggles went beyond tactical issues.

The 4-1 defeat also dealt a major blow to United’s Champions League campaign. According to the report, it was their heaviest loss in the competition since their 4-0 defeat to Barcelona in November 1994.

United have now gone seven matches without a victory across all competitions, losing to Manchester City, Brighton, Atletico Madrid and Como during that period.

Their domestic form has also been disappointing, with the club sitting 13th in the Premier League after winning just one league match all season. They are also 20th in the Champions League league-phase table after losing two of their opening three matches.

Carrick must also deal with fitness concerns surrounding several key players, including Luke Shaw, Marcus Rashford, Kobbie Mainoo, Lisandro Martinez, Ayden Heaven and Benjamin Sesko.

Uncertainty over their availability could complicate preparations for the Bournemouth encounter as United look to end their poor run and rebuild confidence within the squad.

Bournemouth were also involved in European action during the week, travelling to face AC Milan in the Europa League.

United will return to their training ground on Friday, leaving Carrick with limited time to prepare his players for Sunday’s home fixture.