Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes said his side failed to apply enough pressure and fell into a “mood of defeat” after conceding early in Wednesday’s 4-1 Champions League loss at Como. The result has increased scrutiny on manager Michael Carrick.
Como opened the scoring in the second minute, and United collapsed. A stoppage-time consolation goal from Joshua Zirkzee was the only thing that made the scoreline less severe.
Fernandes questions the team’s tactics and mentality
Speaking to TNT Sports, Fernandes said the team started on the wrong foot and lacked pressure on the ball. He said the coaching staff had decided not to press man-to-man and sometimes left space behind, which he believed gave opponents confidence.
Asked whether his comments amounted to criticism of Carrick‘s tactics, Fernandes said that was for the manager and staff to judge. He added that players sometimes had to be braver under pressure and take the risk of pressing high. He also said that conceding early pushed the team into the game with a mood of defeat.
Carrick accepts responsibility and apologises
Carrick has faced growing pressure as United are now winless in seven matches. The 45-year-old told TNT Sports the result was more than disappointing and said everyone needed to take responsibility.
He said he would accept responsibility for the overall team and performance, adding that it stopped with him. Carrick said a performance like that was unacceptable to a supporter of the club. He admitted his side had not shown the required intensity and motivation, and he apologised for the display.
United have three points from their opening three Champions League matches. Their next fixture in the competition is at home to AS Roma.
