Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has raised questions about his team’s tactics following their disappointing 4–1 defeat to Como in the UEFA Champions League on October 21, 2026.

The result increased the pressure on manager Michael Carrick, whose side struggled to cope with Como’s attacking play at the Stadio Giuseppe Sinigaglia in Italy.

Como took the lead through Nico Paz before Anastasios Douvikas extended their advantage after the break. Paz scored again, and Jacobo Ramón added a fourth goal for the home side. Joshua Zirkzee scored a late consolation goal for Manchester United. 

Fernandes Raises Tactical Questions

Speaking after the match, Fernandes said Manchester United had not applied enough pressure on the ball and had struggled to make effective movements off it.

The Portuguese midfielder also questioned the team’s approach to pressing opponents, explaining that giving technically strong teams too much time and space can allow them to build confidence.

However, Fernandes stopped short of directly blaming Carrick. He said decisions about the team’s tactical approach were for the manager and coaching staff to assess.

His comments nevertheless highlighted an important issue for United: how to pressure opponents more effectively without leaving dangerous spaces for them to exploit.

Carrick Accepts Responsibility

Carrick did not hide his disappointment after the defeat. The Manchester United manager described the performance as unacceptable and accepted responsibility for the team’s display.

He also acknowledged that his players had failed to bring the necessary intensity and purpose to the game.

The result will increase scrutiny of United’s performances, but the defeat alone does not confirm any decision about Carrick’s future.

For the manager, the immediate challenge is to help his players respond with greater organisation, concentration and determination in their next match.

What Went Wrong for Manchester United?

One of the biggest problems was United’s inability to respond effectively after conceding an early goal.

An early setback can force a team to change its approach, but experienced players must remain organised and avoid allowing frustration to affect their performance.

United also struggled to prevent Como from finding space and creating attacking opportunities. The Italian side took advantage of those weaknesses to establish a commanding lead.

Fernandes’ comments suggest that United must reconsider how they press opponents and move without the ball. However, tactical adjustments alone will not solve every problem. Better decision-making, defensive discipline and individual responsibility will also be essential.

What Happens Next?

Manchester United must now focus on their response to this disappointing result. Carrick will need to find ways to improve the team’s intensity and organisation, while the players must demonstrate that they can recover from difficult moments during matches.

For Fernandes, the priority will be helping his teammates show a stronger mentality and a more effective approach when they return to European action.

The defeat has raised serious questions about Manchester United’s current performance, but their response in the coming matches will provide a clearer indication of whether the team can address its problems.

What do you think, football fans? Is Manchester United’s biggest problem its tactics, the players’ performances, or both? Share your opinion in the comments.