Manchester United endured a humiliating 4-1 defeat to Como in the UEFA Champions League on Wednesday, intensifying scrutiny on manager Michael Carrick after another disappointing European performance.
United’s defensive frailties resurfaced just eight days after conceding inside the opening minute against Atletico Madrid, with Argentine midfielder Nico Paz putting Como ahead after only 118 seconds.
The early strike made United the first English club to concede within the opening two minutes of consecutive major European matches, adding to their unwanted record.
The result underscored the remarkable rise of Como, who were playing in Serie D when United last lifted the Champions League trophy in 2008.
Paz stole the show with two goals and an assist for Tasos Douvikas, while Jacobo Ramon powered home a header to seal an emphatic win for the hosts.
United risked equalling their heaviest European defeat, a 5-0 loss to Sporting in 1964, before Carrick made several changes in an attempt to revive his side.
Captain Bruno Fernandes was replaced by Joshua Zirkzee in the second half, while Matheus Cunha and Andrey Santos, reportedly signed for a combined £110 million, were withdrawn at half-time.
Zirkzee scored a late consolation in stoppage time, beating the offside trap before converting a cross from fellow substitute Amad Diallo.
The late goal did little to soften the disappointment for United’s travelling supporters as Como celebrated a memorable victory, leaving Carrick under renewed pressure to turn around the club’s European campaign.
