Manchester United made the worst possible start to a hectic October schedule on Sunday, losing 6-3 to cross-city rivals Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium.
United, who made the short hop across the city on a run of four consecutive Premier League victories, were blown away by Pep Guardiola's side, who were inspired by hat-tricks from Phil Foden and Erling Haaland. The Reds were 4-0 down by half-time and were 6-1 behind by the time substitute Anthony Martial scored twice to put a slightly more respectable look on the scoreline at full time.
Fortunately for Erik ten Hag and his players, they have the opportunity to try and get Sunday's horror show out of their systems quickly, starting with Thursday night's Europa League clash with Omonia Nicosia. The meeting with the Cypriot outfit will mark just United's second game in the space of 29 days this month, highlighting the toll October is set to take.
