Michael Carrick put Bruno Fernandes on the bench from the starting of the game against Bournemouth. On Sunday, Carrick took this risk and it’s consequence was bad but expected. Bournemouth defeated Man United at their Old Trafford. The manager’s job is on the line but he is the only person to be blamed.
Bruno Fernandes did not get a single minute against Bournemouth
After the Champions League loss against Como, United captain Bruno Fernandes criticised the coach’s tactics in the post-match interview. On Sunday, the Portuguese international did not get to play a single minute against the Cherries in the Premier League fixture. As reported by The Guardian, Carrick did not state that it was any sort of punishment. However, the English coach refused to accept that Fernandes’ opinion about lack of pressing. Carrick took this risky decision when any moment could be his last one at the club. But Carrick’s bravery did not go well.
At Old Trafford, Marco Rose’s Bournemouth side annihilated the Red Devils. The scoreline was 3-0 but it could have been worse. Rayan broke the deadlock while Marcus Tavernier and Evailson added more. United players could not give competition to Marco Rose’s boys. The pressure is building on Carrick. But the result’s responsibility is not fully on Carrick. Players will also have to take the blame for such a disappointing performance.
Bruno Fernandes’ stats for Manchester United in 2026-27 season, according to FOTMOB:
Competitions Appearances Goals Assists Chances created
Premier League 7 3 1 16
EFL Cup 1 0 0 –
UEFA Champions League 3 1 0 7
Manchester United - Man Utd
Could Bruno Fernandes have helped his team on Sunday?
Bruno Fernandes is no where near his regular form in Man United’s shirt. The 32-year-old has scored 3 goals and has 1 assist in Premier League this season. These goal contributions came in a single match against Ipswich Town. He has not been up to the mark in this campaign. There are several players in the squad who could play in Bruno’s position. But none of them are in form, so a demotivated Fernandes could add something to the team. In all these years, he has created the most chances and helped his team.
Many fans and pundits have raised questions on Fernandes’ attitude. He is not someone like Roy Keane or Bryan Robson, but he has set his own standards. Michael Carrick could have given a chance to youngster, Shea Lacey. But when the team is behind, the captain could have created something.
Fans conveyed their message to the club
At the end of the match, fans showed their support to the manager. When Carrick was approaching the stands to thank the fans, the supporters applauded the coach. But an interesting turn of events took place. As soon as the head coach left, fans started to boo the players asking the players to take the blame. Moreover, throughout the match fans were protesting against the management.
Ben Jacobs has posted on his X that Michael Carrick will remain as Man United’s manager, as of now. The board has given him some time to change things. But he has to show his best football at Stamford Bridge against Chelsea.
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