According to a report by Manchester Evening News on Thursday, October 22, 2026, Manchester United manager Michael Carrick has accepted full responsibility for his team’s disappointing 4-1 Champions League defeat to Como, describing the performance as “unacceptable” and apologising to the supporters who travelled to watch the match.

The defeat has intensified pressure on Carrick, whose side have now gone seven consecutive matches without a victory. United were outplayed by Cesc Fabregas’ Como at the Stadio Giuseppe Sinigaglia, with Nico Paz scoring twice to help the Italian side secure an impressive win.

Speaking to TNT Sports after the final whistle, Carrick admitted that his team’s performance fell far below the standards expected of Manchester United.

“It was more than disappointing,” the manager said. “I think everybody has got to take responsibility for that. I 100 per cent take responsibility for the overall team and the performance - that's where it stops.”

Carrick insisted that he was prepared to accept the criticism following the defeat, stressing that responsibility for the team’s disappointing display ultimately rested with him.

“It stops with me and I'm absolutely fine with that. I accept that totally. But as a supporter of this football club for so long, to see a performance like that is unacceptable, I have to say,” he added.

The United boss also apologised to the travelling supporters, acknowledging their commitment and the disappointment they endured while watching their team struggle against Como.

“I care an unbelievable amount about the supporters. They are the heartbeat of this football club and they always will be. For them to travel, I had to apologise for the performance. To have to watch a performance like that, I totally feel for them,” Carrick said.

He concluded his assessment by reiterating his dissatisfaction with the team’s display, stating: “There are no excuses at all. It is not acceptable.”

The defeat has also raised further questions about United’s tactical approach and the performances of several players. Captain Bruno Fernandes reportedly criticised the coaching staff and their tactics after the match, reflecting the growing frustration surrounding the club.

Carrick, who was appointed permanent manager following a successful second spell as interim head coach, declined to comment on whether he still had the backing of the club’s hierarchy. Instead, he emphasised the need to assess the team’s shortcomings and identify what went wrong.

Manchester United will now turn their attention to Sunday’s Premier League clash against Bournemouth at Old Trafford. The match offers Carrick and his players an opportunity to restore confidence and respond to their disappointing European performance.