Manchester United's Champions League trip to Como threatened by severe flooding warning

Manchester United’s Champions League clash at Como faces a serious risk of postponement after Lombardy was placed under an orange severe weather warning, with heavy rainfall battering the region ahead of Wednesday’s fixture at Stadio Giuseppe Sinigaglia.

Authorities have recorded persistent rain since Tuesday, and forecasters predict a further 64mm before kick-off — a significant concern given that only one of the stadium’s four stands offers cover from the elements. Despite the conditions, Como have expressed confidence that the pitch will hold up and the game will proceed as scheduled.

United arrive in Italy having won one and lost one of their opening two Champions League matches this season. Manager Michael Carrick played down concerns about the weather in his pre-match briefing. “No, nothing immediate from me, we’re used to the rain,” he said. “We’ll make the most of it!”

Carrick faces a selection headache regardless of the conditions, having taken to the training pitch on Tuesday without six players. Ayden Heaven, Kobbie Mainoo, Marcus Rashford, Lisandro Martinez, Luke Shaw and Patrick Dorgu were all absent from the session, casting doubt over their availability.

The United manager is also navigating what he acknowledged is the club’s worst start to a league campaign in 40 years, though he insisted he retains full backing from the club’s hierarchy. “I don’t need any reassurance. It’s pretty clear. I know the role, I know my responsibilities,” Carrick said. “I feel backed, yeah, why wouldn’t I? I have a really good relationship with everyone at the football club. There are no issues on that side.”

Como, managed by former Arsenal and Barcelona midfielder Cesc Fabregas, have been one of the more eye-catching stories in Serie A this season and also include former United defender Willy Kambwala in their squad. United have managed only two wins across all competitions so far this term, making Wednesday’s fixture a significant test of Carrick’s side regardless of the weather overhead.