Five years and counting. Manchester United have officially entered their most unsuccessful period since the fallow years following their first European Cup in 1968.
Atletico Madrid's authoritative victory at Old Trafford ensures United will stray towards six trophyless years in 2023. The last time that happened was in 1983 and 1974 and in the latter year season they were relegated. It is apposite the current United should suffer similar ignominy in this ramshackle season.
United resembled a team that has reached the quarter-finals of the Champions League twice in the last 11 years. Atletico were streetwise, canny and composed. United were affronted by the referee's officiousness and the theatrics that are mandatory with Diego Simeone's street fighters.
