Carrick faces Leeds test after Manchester United’s Atletico defeat

Manchester United arrive at Leeds with Michael Carrick under pressure to halt a poor run: United sit 13th in the Premier League with six points from six games, then lost 2-0 away to Atletico Madrid in the Champions League.

Pablo Barrios and Ademola Lookman scored for Atletico. United conceded inside the first minute, and the night worsened when Leny Yoro was sent off for a foul on Jonathan David after being judged the last defender. The Peoples Person described the decision as harsh; Atletico doubled their lead soon after the dismissal. Bryan Mbeumo and Bruno Fernandes missed chances, while the Mirror reported that the defeat was United’s fourth in all competitions this season.

The result has sharpened scrutiny of Carrick’s decisions. The Peoples Person questioned his choice to move Fernandes wide to accommodate an unfit Youri Tielemans in the No.10 role, arguing that Shea Lacey could have been used instead. Fernandes set the Premier League assist record last season, but has yet to score or assist in his two league appearances this campaign.

The same outlet also questioned Carrick’s decision to start Marcus Rashford ahead of Matheus Cunha and his timing of the changes, which began in the 66th minute. Andrey Santos started after Kobbie Mainoo was injured. Mbeumo, who has scored twice in two league games, and Fernandes both missed opportunities against Atletico.

United’s league record stands at one win, three draws and two defeats, with recent form listed as DDLDW. Their squad concerns add to the challenge: Benjamin Sesko, Manuel Ugarte, Patrick Dorgu and Tom Heaton are out, while Luke Shaw, Noussair Mazraoui and Mainoo are doubtful for the Leeds trip.

The fixture is on Sunday, 18 October, with a 14:00 BST kick-off. Carrick’s immediate task is to get a response from a side that has won only once in the league. Another setback would deepen the questions already being asked about his selections and the team’s start to the season.