Manchester United’s struggles with record defeats continued as they suffered one of their worst setbacks in years, crashing out of the League Cup to fourth-tier Grimsby Town in a dramatic 12–11 penalty shootout after a 2–2 draw at Blundell Park.
Grimsby showed no fear, striking twice in the first half through Charles Vernam and former United youth player Tyrell Warren. United fought back after the break with goals from Bryan Mbeumo and Harry Maguire, but the shootout ended in heartbreak. Matheus Cunha missed a chance to seal the win before Mbeumo’s penalty struck the crossbar, sending Grimsby fans into wild celebrations.
The shock defeat marks United’s first-ever League Cup elimination at the hands of a fourth-tier team in 65 years of the competition. Previously, their lowest point came in 2014 when they were thrashed 4–0 by third-tier MK Dons under Louis van Gaal.
The scale of the upset was underlined by the vast gulf in resources: United’s squad is valued at nearly €900 million, compared to Grimsby’s €3.6 million.
For Grimsby, it was a historic night to remember; for United, a humiliating new low and a reminder of how far the club has fallen. The defeat also ends their League Cup hopes and raises fresh questions about the team’s direction under Ruben Amorim, with tough Premier League fixtures against Manchester City and Chelsea looming after the international break.
A great development for team was announced when Manchester City set to Bring Back Goalkeeper James Trafford in £27m Agreement
