Michael Carrick had reportedly decided to drop Bruno Fernandes from Manchester United’s starting line-up before learning of the midfielder’s public criticism of his tactics following the Champions League defeat to Como.
According to a report by the Daily Mail, Carrick had already concluded that Fernandes should be left out after assessing his performance during United’s 4–1 defeat in Italy on October 21.
The United captain was substituted in the 67th minute of that encounter before expressing his frustration with the team’s approach in a post-match interview. Fernandes questioned the decision to defend deeper rather than press opponents aggressively, arguing that United needed to show greater bravery under pressure.
“I think sometimes we have to be more brave on the pressure, trying to take a risk of getting that press very high and making them uncomfortable,” Fernandes said, adding that the tactical decision was the responsibility of the manager and his coaching staff.
The timing of Carrick’s reported decision challenges the assumption that Fernandes was dropped solely as punishment for speaking publicly about the manager’s tactics.
Fernandes was named among the substitutes for United’s Premier League meeting with Bournemouth on October 25 and remained unused as Carrick’s side suffered a 3–0 home defeat.
It was a significant selection decision involving a player who has been one of United’s most influential figures since arriving from Sporting CP in January 2020. The Portuguese midfielder has been a regular presence in the side and was appointed club captain in 2023.
Carrick maintained that his decision was based on football considerations when questioned before the Bournemouth fixture.
“Picking the team, the starting XI, you’ve got options to choose from and it’s always a difficult decision,” he explained. “We’ve got to make what we feel is the right one for the team to try and get that performance that we want.”
The manager subsequently described the decision as “pure football”.
The controversy nevertheless placed further attention on the relationship between the United manager and his captain, particularly after Fernandes’ comments were interpreted as a direct challenge to Carrick’s tactical authority.
However, the pair held clear-the-air discussions at the club’s Carrington training ground on October 27, with both understood to be committed to improving United’s difficult season. Carrick has also confirmed that Fernandes will retain the captaincy, describing him as an important player who remains fully committed to the club.
With Fernandes expected to be available for Saturday’s Premier League trip to Chelsea, the immediate dispute appears to have eased, although United’s performances and results remain a major concern.
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