This protest comes almost a year to the day since United fans stormed the training ground in response to the proposed European Super League, when then manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer came outside to meet them and listen to their frustrations. 

But this latest episode is the perfect example of the growing anger and disillusionment at how United are performing on and off the pitch, compared with rivals Liverpool and Manchester City.  

“There was a small and peaceful protest outside the Carrington training ground today,” said a United spokesperson. “We respect the opinions of fans and remain committed to strengthening our engagement with them.”

Meanwhile, Nemanja Matic has announced he will leave Manchester United this summer despite having one season left on his contract at Old Trafford. 

The Serbia midfielder, 33, informed the club he will not be part of their new era when Erik ten Hag is expected to take charge following Rangnick’s spell as interim manager.  

Matic is set to be the first of the departures at United this summer with Paul Pogba, Juan Mata, Jesse Lingard and Edinson Cavani out of contract and leaving unless new deals are brokered. 

It will bring an end to five years at United for Matic, where he did not win a trophy but reached the final of the Europa League and FA Cup. He arrived for £40 million in 2017 in the same summer United snatched Romelu Lukaku from under Chelsea’s noses, which played a role in the clubs negotiating a fee. 

“After a great deal of thought, I have decided that this season will be my last with Manchester United,” said a statement by Matic. “I have informed the board, the manager and the players of my decision.

“It has been a huge honour and a privilege to play for this great club. A big thank you to the fans for their unwavering support. I will now give everything until the end of the season to help my team-mates finish as strongly as possible.”