Fernandes Criticizes Carrick's Tactics After Manchester United's Humiliating 4-1 Loss to Como

Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has voiced his disappointment following his team's 4-1 Champions League defeat against Como, stating that the side lacked sufficient pressure and exhibited a "mood of defeat" after conceding an early goal. The result has intensified the spotlight on manager Michael Carrick.

Como took the lead in the second minute, and Manchester United struggled to recover, with only a late consolation goal from Joshua Zirkzee preventing a more severe scoreline.

"We started on the wrong foot, and they scored very early," Fernandes told TNT Sports. "There was not enough pressure on the ball and not many good movements off the ball. There were many things not going our way."

Fernandes elaborated on the tactical approach, suggesting, "It’s a decision from the [coaching] staff not to press man-to-man and sometimes leave space behind and try to get the ball, wait for them, but sometimes when you give space to these teams they get confidence."

When questioned if his remarks constituted criticism of Carrick's tactics, Fernandes deferred, stating, "That’s on the manager and staff to see, not me. Sometimes you have to be more brave under pressure, take the risk of pressing high and making them uncomfortable."

Carrick is facing mounting pressure as United remain winless in their last seven matches. "It was more than disappointing," the manager admitted to TNT Sports. "I think everybody’s got to take responsibility for that. I’ll take responsibility for the overall team and performance; it stops with me, and I’m fine with that. But as a supporter of this football club, to see a performance like that is unacceptable, I have to say."

Carrick also highlighted a lack of intensity from his team. "It’s the motivation and the purpose and the intensity of a game of football that you have to bring. We didn’t bring that today. I’ve got to apologise for the performance."

Fernandes further questioned the team's mentality, noting, "Conceding early makes us go into the game with a mood of defeat." Manchester United currently has three points from their initial three Champions League fixtures and is set to host AS Roma in their next competition match.