BrunoFernandes remains Manchester United captain, confirmed manager Michael Carrick, who asked the media not to fuel rumors of a possible role change. The statement comes shortly after the 3‑0 defeat against Bournemouth, when Carrick decided to put the Portuguese on the bench, following Fernandes' criticism of the tactics used in the 4‑1 Champions League match against Como.
Carrick explained that the decision to exclude Fernandes from the last match was not motivated by an evaluation of his character or his performances, but was a temporary tactical decision to prepare the team for the next big meeting with Chelsea in the Premier League. “There is no decision to be made regarding his position as captain,” the coach said, stressing that the player is “fully committed to the club and the improvement of the team”.
The coach also reiterated the importance of Fernandes for the group. "He has been and always will be a point of reference for us. We have to make a difference and push things in the right direction," he added, highlighting that his leadership has been crucial in many matches in recent years. Carrick also clarified that there is no internal problem and that the decision to exclude him from the last match was exclusively linked to the strategy for the match against Bournemouth.
Manchester United, who recently renewed their faith in Carrick, now find themselves focusing on preparing for the match against Chelsea. The club has demonstrated its desire to maintain continuity in the management of the team, with Fernandes continuing to wear the captain's armband and lead his teammates both on and off the pitch.
Looking to the future, the club and the manager seem determined to continue with the same line of thinking, relying on Fernandes to lead the team in the upcoming matches of the Premier League and European competitions. Carrick's decision to keep the Portuguese at the center of the group is a sign of stability and confidence in the player's leadership abilities.