Manchester United: Red Devils Humiliated by Champions League Dismissal

Humiliation is a dish that can really only be served prior to the knockout round. 

That is what the Red Devils are being served, as they were sent from the tournament they were so close to winning just a few months ago. 

Manchester United ensured their season will be far more schizophrenic than it will be successful. Sir Alex Ferguson made moves this summer, with the end goal being possession of the ultimate prize in the Champions League. 

Instead, they are sent packing far before they dreamed possible. United needed but a measly draw to continue into the all-important knockout stages. 

Instead, they were sent off by a spirited FC Basel side that took all three points in a 2-1 conclusion that still has me scratching my head. 

All it took was a let down in that pesky back line to make the impossible a horrible reality for the Red Devils. Their stagnant attack was enough for a late goal to act like a dagger into the heart of what was once a magical season. 

Basel skipper Marco Streller scored in the ninth minute, and Alex Frei struck in the 84th. That was all that was needed to render a Phil Jones goal in the 89th utterly useless. 

So now a team that was a piece or two away from really contending last year with Barcelona in the final will play in the second-tier Europa League starting next February. 

It goes without saying that this was a true disappointment. The domestic trophies will not have the same luster as at least a semifinal showing in the Champions League. 

Consider that Manchester City is showing form that threatens to take the Premiership, and you can see that this could really be a forgettable season for Fergie's side. 

It's a bit taxing on the brain when you think of how this team started the season. They were an unbeatable force that didn't just look balanced on the pitch, but looked deeper than any other power in Europe. 

The sharp dip in form now has the oddest image set to take place. One of the most talented sides in the world will be playing in a lesser tournament. 

There is no getting around it; United was humiliated in their efforts this time around. And there is no amount of domestic glory that will assuage that.