Bruno Fernandes Questions Manchester United Pressing After 4-1 Defeat to Como

Manchester United suffered a 4-1 UEFA Champions League defeat away to Como on 21 October 2026, prompting captain Bruno Fernandes to question the team’s approach without the ball.

Como take control

Nico Paz scored twice for the hosts, with Anastasios Douvikas and Jacobo Ramon also on target. Joshua Zirkzee scored United’s consolation goal in stoppage time. United’s official match report confirmed the result and goalscorers.

Fernandes discusses the pressing plan

Speaking after the match, Fernandes said United had allowed Como too much time and space in possession. He explained that the coaching staff had chosen not to press man-to-man consistently and suggested the team sometimes needed to take greater risks by pressing higher.

Asked whether the tactical approach had been wrong, Fernandes said the judgement belonged to the manager and coaching staff. His comments highlighted a disagreement over how United should pressure opponents rather than an independently established failure of any single tactic.

Carrick responds

Head coach Michael Carrick acknowledged the poor performance and said players needed to show greater intensity regardless of the tactical system. He also noted that United had tried a partial man-to-man press during the second half but still conceded.

The result and subsequent comments put renewed focus on United’s defensive organisation and the team’s response to setbacks.

Sources: Manchester United official match report; Reuters via CNA; Sky Sports post-match reporting.