Manchester United's difficult start to the season continued with a 2-0 defeat to Atletico Madrid at the Metropolitano, their fourth loss in all competitions. Goals from Pablo Barrios and Ademola Lookman condemned the Red Devils, leaving manager Michael Carrick under real pressure heading into a potentially decisive Premier League showdown with Leeds this weekend.
Early setback and VAR drama
Diego Simeone's side took the lead within seconds. Alex Baena was released behind the United defence and, instead of going alone, waited for support before rolling the ball across for Barrios, who scored via a touch off Ayden Heaven.
Atletico thought they had doubled their lead just before the break when Johnny Cardoso swept home, but the goal was ruled out following a VAR review. United appealed for a handball by Marcos Llorente earlier in the move, with Ayden Heaven and Bruno Fernandes leading the appeals. The referee chalked the strike off, a decision that looked harsh as the ball bounced off Llorente's thigh onto his arm before hitting Heaven's hand.
Red card and second goal
United's evening worsened in the second half when VAR intervened again, sending Leny Yoro off for a last-man challenge on Jonathan David. Ademola Lookman then tucked home from close range to make it 2-0.
United had other lucky breaks in Madrid. Defender Alex Grimaldo hit the post from a free kick, and Julian Alvarez struck the woodwork with a spectacular second-half attempt.
Wasteful in front of goal
Despite the defeat, United created a number of presentable chances but failed to take them. Bryan Mbeumo twice went close in the first half, rolling one effort wide and seeing another parried by Jan Oblak. Marcus Rashford and Bruno Fernandes also went close, with Fernandes lifting a chipped effort just wide and later striking the woodwork. Matheus Cunha should have scored in stoppage time but saw his effort saved.
The result leaves Carrick under real pressure, with the upcoming Premier League match against Leeds potentially decisive for his future at the club.
