Michael Carrick has taken “100 per cent responsibility” for Manchester United’s 4-1 thrashing by Como in the Champions League, describing the performance as “unacceptable” and apologising to supporters.
The defeat at the Stadio Giuseppe Sinigaglia extended United’s winless run to seven games, a sequence that began with a 1-0 derby loss to Manchester City. Como, managed by Cesc Fabregas, tore the Red Devils apart on Wednesday, with Nico Paz scoring twice.
Carrick accepts full blame
Speaking to TNT Sports after the match, Carrick said: “It was more than disappointing. 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.
“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.”
Apology to travelling fans
Carrick, who took over from Ruben Amorim on a full-time basis after a successful spell as interim head coach, expressed deep regret for the fans who travelled to Italy.
“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. There are no excuses at all. It is not acceptable,” he added.
Pressure mounts after Atletico defeat
The Como loss followed a dismal 2-0 defeat at Atletico Madrid, which prompted Lisandro Martinez to openly criticise the club’s hierarchy. Captain Bruno Fernandes also questioned “the staff” and their tactics in his post-match reaction.
Carrick declined to comment on whether he had the backing of the United hierarchy, insisting the focus was on “digesting” the game. United return to Premier League action on Sunday, hosting Bournemouth at Old Trafford.
