Manchester United suffered a disappointing 4-2 defeat to AC Milan in Poland after surrendering the lead twice before the Italian side completed a second-half comeback.
The result made for an intriguing meeting between United and former manager Ruben Amorim, who is now in charge of Milan.
United made a flying start, taking the lead in the second minute when Harry Maguire rose highest to head home Bruno Fernandes’ corner.
Amad Diallo came close to doubling United’s advantage shortly afterwards, but Milan gradually settled into the game and began to create chances of their own.
United goalkeeper Senne Lammens produced an important save to deny Ruben Loftus-Cheek before Milan eventually found an equaliser in the 37th minute.
Goncalo Ramos created the opening for Samuel Chukwueze, who finished from close range to make it 1-1.
United had a chance to regain the lead before half-time after being awarded a penalty, but Fernandes saw his effort saved.
United restored their advantage six minutes after the restart when Patrick Dorgu capitalised on a poor back-pass from Filippo Terracciano before calmly finishing.
But Milan responded almost immediately.
Alphadjo Cisse levelled in the 57th minute after Chukwueze caused problems down the right before delivering a cross for his teammate to finish at the far post.
Chukwueze was involved again four minutes later, setting up Ramos, who headed Milan into the lead for the first time.
Milan then exposed United’s right flank once more in the 71st minute, with Loftus-Cheek racing through before finishing to make it 4-2.
United attempted to change the course of the match through a series of substitutions, but they were unable to find a response as Milan held on for a convincing comeback victory.
The match also marked the return of several United players to competitive action.
Lisandro Martinez was gradually reintroduced following his World Cup involvement, while Kobbie Mainoo also made his return to the team.
Marcus Rashford came off the bench to make his first appearance for Manchester United in 20 months.
With the new Premier League season approaching, United will have plenty to reflect on after allowing Milan to overturn their advantage and expose worrying defensive weaknesses.
