Manchester United head coach Michael Carrick and captain Bruno Fernandes held clear‑the‑air talks at the training ground before the trip to Chelsea. Fernandes, 32, was an unused substitute in United’s 3-0 defeat by Bournemouth on Sunday and was dropped to the bench after criticising Carrick’s tactics following the 4-1 loss to Como in the Champions League.
The club prepares for Saturday’s match at Stamford Bridge, with Fernandes possibly returning to the starting line‑up. Carrick, a 45‑year‑old, was widely expected to be sacked after the Bournemouth game but has been given the chance to turn things around, despite United sitting in 16th place in the Premier League.
The board believes the squad, capable of qualifying for the Champions League, are underperforming and share blame. Kobbie Mainoo returned to training after a fortnight out with injury, while United have managed only one win in eight Premier League matches, and senior figures say the players, not just the manager, are responsible for the slump. The club’s board have grown impatient with the lack of progress and believe the squad must improve quickly.
Reports indicate the club has shortlisted former Newcastle boss Eddie Howe and free agent Julian Nagelsmann as potential replacements. Any decision to replace Carrick could trigger a hefty compensation claim. The situation remains fluid as the club weighs its options.
Source: BBC Sport Football · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing