Manchester United’s manager Michael Carrick confirmed that Bruno Fernandes will remain the club’s captain despite being dropped for the defeat to Bournemouth, and he said he is not surprised to still be in charge after a string of poor results. Carrick and Fernandes met earlier in the week following criticism from the Portuguese midfielder about the tactics used in the loss, and the meeting ended with Carrick reassuring Fernandes that his leadership role would not be taken away.
The loss to Bournemouth left United without a win in eight matches and more than two months since their last Premier League victory. The hierarchy had been debating whether to keep Carrick at the helm, with names such as Eddie Howe and Julian Nagelsmann floated as possible replacements. Carrick denied that he needed any guarantees or assurances from the club’s board, stating that he fully understood the responsibilities of the job and was determined to improve the team’s performance.
Carrick also addressed the reaction of the fans. After the Bournemouth match, supporters booed the players at Old Trafford, but Carrick said he cares deeply about the supporters’ experience and wants to give them something to cheer for. He added that he is focused on what the club needs to do to get better, rather than on external opinions.
Harry Maguire wore the armband for the Sunday match, but Carrick made it clear that the captaincy would not be retained for the upcoming game against Chelsea. He praised Fernandes as an essential player for the squad, noting that he has led the team for many games and years and will continue to do so. Carrick also welcomed the return of Kobbie Mainoo to training, which he said was a positive sign for the squad’s depth.
United will be without striker Benjamin Sesko until the new year because of a shin injury, but the club’s focus remains on stabilising the team’s form and keeping Carrick in the dugout. The next fixtures will test whether the manager’s confidence and the players’ commitment can translate into results on the pitch.