Rooney condemns United’s squad choices after heavy defeat to Como

Manchester United suffered a 4‑1 defeat to Serie A side Como on Wednesday, leaving Michael Carrick’s position on thin ice and prompting former United star Wayne Rooney to publicly denounce the squad selection. The loss, the club’s fifth defeat in their opening eleven games across all competitions, has intensified scrutiny of the manager and the board.

Squad choices spark outrage

Carrick’s squad featured two players who had featured in the Under‑19 Champions League game earlier that day, a fact that left Rooney “shocked” and described as “mind‑boggling”. He told The United Stand that watching the U‑19 match on the bench and then seeing the same two names in the first‑team line‑up was “absolutely incredible”. Rooney added that the situation makes one wonder “Is this where the club’s at? Is this how bad it’s got?”.

Rooney’s criticism was echoed by captain Bruno Fernandes, who broke ranks after the game to attack Carrick’s tactics. In the aftermath, Rooney branded Fernandes and teammate Lisandro Martinez “selfish babies”, joining the chorus of pundits who have “destroyed” Fernandes for his comments.

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reported that senior staff were “left shocked at the team’s performance” and highlighted a perceived lack of personal responsibility among players. The outlet noted that Amad Diallo, who replaced Matheus Cunha at half‑time, was the only player to emerge with any credit from the match.

Future hangs on board decision

When asked where United go from here, Rooney warned of “an explosion” and called for “clarification from the board, whether that’s backing or getting rid of Michael Carrick”. He said the board must act to calm the situation, noting that “you can’t have two players in a week having go at the board and the manager”.

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With United having lost five of their opening eleven games, Carrick is on thin ice and the pressure on the manager continues to mount. The Red Devils now face a crucial period in which the board’s response could determine the club’s direction for the rest of the season.