Waterlogged pitch threatens to postpone United's Champions League clash with Como

Manchester United’s Champions League trip to Como 1907 on Wednesday evening is under serious threat of postponement after heavy rainfall left the pitch at Stadio Giuseppe Sinigaglia waterlogged and conditions across Lombardy dangerous enough to trigger an orange weather warning.

Authorities in the region have urged vigilance as the severe alert remains in place, with 64mm of rain predicted before kick-off. The stadium offers shelter in just one of its four stands, leaving supporters exposed to what is forecast to be a thoroughly sodden evening. Despite the additional risk of lightning, Como officials remain cautiously optimistic that the pitch will hold up and the match will proceed.

United manager Michael Carrick played down concerns ahead of the game. “No, nothing immediate from me, we’re used to the rain,” he said. “We’ll make the most of it!”

Carrick arrives in Italy under mounting pressure after overseeing what he acknowledged is the club’s worst start to a season in 40 years. United have recorded just two wins across all competitions so far, and hold one victory and one defeat from their opening two Champions League fixtures. The manager, however, insisted he feels supported by 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.”

Team selection could be significantly disrupted after six players were absent from Tuesday’s training session: Ayden Heaven, Kobbie Mainoo, Marcus Rashford, Lisandro Martinez, Luke Shaw, and Patrick Dorgu.

Como, managed by former Arsenal midfielder Cesc Fabregas, arrive in good form and include ex-United defender Willy Kambwala in their squad. The Italian side’s upward trajectory makes them a testing opponent for a United team badly in need of a result, weather permitting.