Manchester United endured a nightmare start against Roma in the Champions League with one big call going against them at Old Trafford
Ayden Heaven of Manchester United handles the ball leading to a penalty during the UEFA Champions League 2026/27 League Phase MD4 match between Manchester United and AS Roma at Old Trafford on November 3, 2026 in Manchester, United Kingdom
Manchester United endured the worst possible start(Image: 2026 Marc Atkins)
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Alan Shearer and former referee Mark Clattenburg believes it was right Roma were awarded a penalty after Manchester United defender Ayden Heaven blocked a ball with his hand. The teenager's first start in the Champions League got off to the worst possible start.
In the 11th minute, Michael Carrick's side were carved open by the in-form Italians, who took the lead through Matias Soule. Not long after, the Roma forward had another opportunity at goal, except his effort was blocked by Heaven's arm.
It was close range, but the referee did not hesitate before pointing to the spot. Despite VAR taking a look at the decision, the official's original call was allowed to stand.
Looking at the incident for Amazon Prime, Clattenburg insisted the right call was made. He said: "Even with the check, the arm is outstretched.
"It's a shot on goal and the referees are normally, in the guidelines, when there's a shot on goal and the ball hits the hand, a penalty is going to be given and the referee is in a really good position."
Shearer then said: "No doubt about it, his arm was up and the ball was going towards the goal. It was always going to be given, especially in this competition.
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"Exactly the same thing has happened again. They lose the ball on Roma's left, they switch it to the right and they're so open again.
"It looks as if they've been punished. Mistakes all over the pitch. It's mistake after mistake after mistake. It's embarrassing. It really is."
Ex-Aston Villa forward Donyell Malen stepped up, sent Senne Lammens the wrong way and found the far corner with an emphatic penalty. Gian Piero Gasperini's side may have even had a third before half time, were it not for a last-ditch tackle from Leny Yoro.
Not long after the Frenchman rescued United from further embarrassment, Shearer added: "I'm seeing one team full of confidence and belief. Every player on their team wants the ball and I'm seeing the other team that are devoid of ideas and devoid of any belief and confidence, playing with none whatsoever."