Como beat Manchester United 4-1 as Carrick faces tactical criticism

Como approached the visit of Manchester United with respect, but without accepting that their opponents should intimidate them. Before the match, coach Cesc Fabregas said his side could win if they did things properly, according to Adnkronos.

Fabregas also described the club's progress as a collective project built around its staff, ideas and city. Fanpage reported his emphasis on the trust placed in the team before a Champions League fixture that would become a major result for Como.

On October 21, Como struck almost immediately. La Nacion reported that Nico Paz received a pass from Lucas Da Cunha on the right with barely two minutes played before scoring the opening goal.

Paz went on to score twice and provide an assist in a 4-1 victory at the Giuseppe Sinigaglia stadium, where Como dominated, according to CNN Brasil. La Repubblica identified Douvikas and Ramon as the other Como scorers, with Paz supplying the assist for Douvikas. It was Como's second Champions League win.

The immediate aftermath exposed disagreement within United. Captain Bruno Fernandes criticised the tactics, and coach Michael Carrick appeared to respond with criticism of his own, ESPN FC reported on October 21. The dispute made the reaction to the defeat about more than the score.

Carrick's future was in the balance ahead of Bournemouth's Sunday visit to Old Trafford, according to the Guardian. Asked about his position, Carrick said he had not given it any thought, The42 reported.

On October 22, Como's response focused on their supporters. ESPN FC reported that Cesc Fàbregas and Nico Paz dedicated the victory to fans who had remained loyal through years of hardship.

United have both a damaging European result and a public tactical disagreement to address. Sky Sports reported that Fernandes and Carrick disagreed over the approach used against Como. The supplied coverage does not report a decision on Carrick's future.

Como's coach was more restrained than the scoreline might suggest. After the match, Fabregas said it was a special night but that his side were still at the beginning, according to Fanpage. His response stopped short of claiming Como could now compete with everyone.

United's next immediate test is Bournemouth at Old Trafford on Sunday, the fixture highlighted by the Guardian in its reporting on Carrick's uncertain future. The open questions are whether United change their approach and whether Carrick and Fernandes can resolve their disagreement after it became public.