Erik ten Hag marched back towards the tunnel, too angry and probably too embarrassed to raise his head towards the stands as the boos rang out around Old Trafford at half-time yesterday.
At least his decision to switch the home and away dug-outs here over the summer meant the walk of shame was a few metres shorter.
Forty-five minutes earlier, he had emerged into the afternoon sunshine to a carnival atmosphere. New manager, new season, new hope. A couple of new signings in the Manchester United line-up too.
Ten Hag was given a standing ovation and reciprocated with a wave to the crowd and a handshake for United’s mascot Fred the Red.