Michael Carrick Refuses to Rule Out Dropping Bruno Fernandes for Bournemouth Visit

Head coach Michael Carrick declined to guarantee Bruno Fernandes a starting spot or the captaincy for Sunday's match at Old Trafford.

Manchester United head coach Michael Carrick refused to confirm if Bruno Fernandes will start Sunday's match against Bournemouth at Old Trafford. The uncertainty follows a 4-1 defeat to Como, after which Fernandes used a post-match television interview to suggest that the coaching staff's decision not to press man-for-man contributed to the heavy loss.

During a Friday news conference, Carrick dodged questions regarding whether he would bench the midfielder or strip him of the captaincy. The manager stated he would always prioritize the football club's best interests and the dynamics of the squad over individual players. He further declined to provide details on any private conversations held with Fernandes since the trip to Italy.

Internal tensions have increased at the club as Fernandes is the second individual to publicly criticize staff in two weeks. Defender Lisandro Martínez previously targeted director of football Jason Wilcox and the board. Despite these public comments, Carrick denied that the dressing room is divided, insisting that the players and staff remain on the same page as they prepare for the upcoming Premier League fixture.