Manchester United were ruthlessly taken apart 4-1 by Como in rainy northern Italy on Wednesday evening.
The match
It was a chastening event and demonstrated to all of Europe how far the club has fallen.
United were outclassed all over the pitch and can probably count themselves fortunate to have only lost by three, as Cesc Fabregas masterminded a famous victory for the Serie A club.
Matthijs de Ligt
The Dutch centre back has not played since last November but had to fill in today due to United’s crippling defensive injuries.
Leny Yoro was suspended, and Lisandro Martinez and Ayden Heaven were both injured for the game.
This meant De Ligt had to start alongside Harry Maguire, and the two never looked comfortable together.
The former Bayern Munich defender was at sixes and sevens for Como’s second goal when he lost his man and Anastasios Douvika raced in to give the home side the lead.
In 79 minutes of action, De Ligt only managed two defensive actions: one clearance and one interception on the night.
He did not block any shots and, incredibly, did not even compete in a ground duel—something very unusual for the usually commanding and duel-loving centre back.
The centre back also only competed in two aerial battles, winning one.
His passing was accurate, completing 92% of his attempts, but they were not dangerous as he did not complete any key passes.
Analysis
It seems harsh to blame De Ligt for such a poor showing, as he should never have been thrown in at the deep end like he was, especially with such an ill-fitting partner as Maguire.
Nonetheless, it demonstrates the sad state of affairs the club is in that their squad is so weak they must face a Champions League encounter in this scenario.
Matthijs de Ligt career stats
Featured image by Marco Luzzani via Getty Images
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