Bruno Fernandes was dropped after questioning Michael Carrick's tactics following a Man United defeat last month.
Michael Carrick spoke to the media on Friday.(Image: 2026 Molly Darlington)
View Image
Michael Carrick refused to confirm whether Bruno Fernandes had apologised for questioning his tactics, but said that it's "clear" the pair have put it behind them to move in a "good direction."
After Manchester United's Champions League game against Como last month, Fernandes questioned Carrick's tactical approach, which led to him being dropped to the bench for the following match.
The United captain was an unused substitute as the Reds played Bournemouth at Old Trafford. Carrick subsequently held clear-the-air talks with Fernandes at Carrington, and he was recalled to the starting team against Chelsea.
Carrick was asked about the episode again when he spoke to the media ahead of the Aston Villa game this weekend but the United boss did not confirm whether Fernandes had apologised.
He said: "There are always conversations, bits going on, and I said at the time, I think, acknowledging certain things about when things are going well, what we need to improve on as a group, sometimes it's individually, sometimes it's as a group.
"We always have discussions. What's actually said in that discussion, you'll be pleased to know I'll keep that to myself, but it's... I think it's pretty clear we've moved in a good direction, and Bruno's commitment is undoubted for me in terms of what he brings to this team and this club, and I think he showed that again this week."
Make sure you never miss the latest Manchester United news and opinion by making Manchester Evening News one of your Google preferred sources.
Carrick continued: "I think by his actions, the way he's played and how he dealt with even retaking the penalty and frame of mind he was in for that, I think that tells everything. Yeah, Bruno's as good as ever."
Fernandes was named man of the match after the Roma win in midweek and he will attempt to help United win back-to-back games for the first time this season against Villa.
"Whatever happens, what's going to happen is going to happen in terms of the game, and we've got to prepare right, and I'm looking forward to it," said Carrick.
"I said the other night I was really looking forward to the game the other night going into it, genuinely was. Again, wasn't making anything up there for you.
"But really looking forward to the next game, playing at home on the back of the other night, the supporters hopefully looking forward to coming and energised and feeling good about what they might see, and we've got to repay that."