RismadarVoice Reporters
October 25, 2026
Manchester United manager Michael Carrick has dropped captain Bruno Fernandes to the substitutes’ bench for Sunday’s Premier League encounter against Bournemouth, insisting the decision was based entirely on football considerations.
The decision follows Fernandes’ public criticism of United’s tactical approach during Wednesday’s 4-1 Champions League defeat to Italian side Como.
Speaking ahead of the Bournemouth fixture at Old Trafford, Carrick rejected suggestions that the Portuguese midfielder had been punished for questioning the team’s defensive strategy.
“Pure football,” Carrick said when asked about the reason for his decision.
He explained that selecting the starting lineup involved difficult choices, particularly as United sought a much-needed improvement in performance.
Fernandes had criticised the team’s reluctance to press opponents aggressively following the defeat in Italy, arguing that allowing Como too much possession and space had contributed to United’s struggles.
The midfielder suggested that United needed to demonstrate greater courage by pressing higher up the pitch rather than allowing opponents to dictate proceedings.
His remarks intensified scrutiny of Carrick, whose side entered Sunday’s fixture without a victory in seven consecutive matches across all competitions.
United began the day 15th in the Premier League table, having collected seven points from their opening seven league matches.
Despite his reduced influence this season, Fernandes remains an important figure in the squad.
Since Carrick took charge in January, the midfielder has recorded 14 assists and created 96 chances, according to statistics reported by Reuters.
Carrick made four changes to the side that lost to Como, with Matheus Cunha, Matthijs de Ligt and Noussair Mazraoui also dropping to the bench.
Ayden Heaven, Leny Yoro, Carlos Baleba and Amad Diallo were brought into the starting lineup, while defender Harry Maguire assumed the captain’s armband.
The decision also follows criticism of the club’s recruitment strategy by defender Lisandro Martinez, adding to concerns surrounding the team’s performances.
Former United striker Wayne Rooney urged the players to accept responsibility for the club’s struggles rather than shifting blame.
Rooney maintained that improved performances and collective accountability were essential to reversing United’s poor form.
With pressure mounting over his position, Carrick faces a crucial period as United attempt to recover from their disappointing start to the campaign.
Although Fernandes’ omission followed his public criticism, Carrick has maintained that the decision was tactical rather than disciplinary.
