Manchester United have moved captain Bruno Fernandes to the bench for their Premier League clash with Bournemouth on Sunday, a decision that follows the Portuguese playmaker’s outspoken criticism of manager Michael Carrick after the club’s 4‑1 defeat to Como in the Champions League. The move marks the sixth time Fernandes has been left out of the starting XI in a league match, and it comes as United look to end a seven‑match winless streak across all competitions.
Fernandes had been a central figure in the squad for most of the season, but his comments on Wednesday, where he blamed Carrick for the team’s tactical setup and the loss to Como, put his place in the team under scrutiny. Carrick had declined to confirm on Friday’s media conference whether Fernandes would start or not, leaving the question open. The decision to bench the captain was finally made before the match, with Harry Maguire taking over the armband for the game.
The squad list for the home fixture also saw Mason Mount and Youri Tielemans given a more prominent creative role, while Matheus Cunha was left on the bench after being substituted at half‑time in the Italy match. Carrick’s programme notes for the game referenced the Como debacle, emphasizing the club’s long‑standing values and the need for the team to perform in a manner befitting Manchester United’s reputation. He urged the players to unite and deliver a performance that would satisfy the supporters after a disappointing display on Wednesday.
United’s bench list is expected to include several other players who have been rotated in recent weeks. The decision to drop Fernandes is seen as a move to keep him fresh for upcoming Europa League fixtures, a strategy that has been employed twice at the end of the previous season. The club’s management hopes that this change will spark a turnaround in form and help the team break its winless run.
With the match against Bournemouth looming, United’s next priority will be to secure a victory that could lift the team out of the bottom of the league table. The outcome of this game will be closely watched, as it could signal a shift in Carrick’s approach to squad selection and a potential turning point for the club’s campaign.