Jose Mourinho saw red as his Fenerbahce side came from behind to earn a Europa League draw against Manchester United in Istanbul.
Making the midweek trip to Turkey following an impressive Premier League victory against Brentford, Erik ten Hag’s men had a hint of momentum behind them.
The Dutchman wanted to use this to gain a first win in the competition after back-to-back draws against FC Twente and Porto but would have to do so in the belly of a ferociously partisan crowd.
Ultimately, despite the best efforts of Andre Onana, Manuel Ugarte and Christian Eriksen, he will have to wait a fortnight for another opportunity.
It’s now six games without a European win
United had worked hard to slow the tempo in the opening phases as the inevitable home assault was cheered on by Sarı Kanaryalar.
With the impressive Ugarte marshalling the midfield, the Reds managed to silence the Sukru Saracoglu Stadium after 15 minutes when Eriksen smashed an excellent first-time effort into the top corner.
Marcus Rashford has been enjoying good form in recent weeks and was millimetres away from doubling the lead moments later.
The forward collected the ball wide right before completing a trademark dribble into the box and sending his effort marginally onto the wrong side of the post.
Within 60 seconds, the home side broke and thought they had levelled, only for a genuinely remarkable goal-line clearance from the brilliant Ugarte.
Former Sevilla man Youssef En-Nesyri scored twice against United in 2023 but was denied in the dying minutes of the opening half by an imperious double save from Onana.
It was a sustained period of attacking intent from Fenerbahce, but Ten Hag’s men remained resolute in their structure and tactical decisions.
Four minutes after the restart, En-Nesyri struck to level proceedings when he guided an unchallenged cross from the left wing home. Truthfully, it was a catalogue of poor defensive decisions that led to the goal – all of which were avoidable.
A laughable penalty appeal after 58 minutes led to the dismissal of a furious Mourinho – with the officiating team confident in their decision.
The Old Trafford side controlled much of the second period but could not find an elusive breakthrough. It was a peculiar game that saw passages of innovative play, irregular decisions and plenty of frustrating stoppages for theatrical efforts.
With three matches played in European football’s second tier, Ten Hag’s men have three draws and occupy the 21st spot in the new-look format. Remember 24 of the 36 teams survive.
But, worryingly, the Reds again let a lead slip for the fourth consecutive European away fixture and are now without a win in six on the continent.
Next up in the competition is a home tie with Greek side PAOK on November 7th.
What did you make of this evening’s spectacle in Istanbul? Have Manchester United left Fenerbahce off the hook or should we be happy with a point?
Let us know in the comments or across our social channels.
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