Matthijs de Ligt has come in for criticism from the British media on his return to the pitch. After 11 months out, the centre-back went straight into the starting XI against Como on Wednesday evening. It was a night to forget.
Manchester United fell behind after just two minutes when Nico Paz struck a fine opener.
Anastasios Douvikas, Nico Paz again and Jacobo Rámon put Como 4-0 ahead. Joshua Zirkzee eventually salvaged some pride for Manchester United, making it 4-1.
With no other option, manager Michael Carrick threw De Ligt straight in at the deep end.
The Sun gave the former Ajax and Juventus player a 4 for his performance. "Unfortunately, he was thrown straight in at the deep end after 325 days out… a thankless start against a young, eager forward line that he could not get to grips with at all.
"His legs had gone long before it was 2-0, and Carrick kept asking him throughout the match how he was feeling physically."
The BBC also gave him a 4 for the match against Como. "His return after 11 months out got off to a false start. There was no chance to ease into the game. Como's attack were too mobile. A night to forget."
Peter Schmeichel was likewise unimpressed by the Abcoude-born defender. "We're lined up with De Ligt as a centre-back and he hasn't played a minute since November last season… And it showed."