A day before Manchester United's Champions League trip to Atletico Madrid, the club issued a statement on captain Bruno Fernandes, citing an "injury niggle" but stressing there was "nothing to worry about". His performance on the night suggested otherwise.
The criticism has begun to engulf last year's Premier League player of the season. His form has become an unexpected problem for Michael Carrick, reflecting where Man Utd stand more broadly. So often United's saviour, Fernandes is currently his side's scourge. If he is not contributing offensively, he offers virtually nothing else, and United's fragility means they cannot afford passengers.
Benching Fernandes would be a bold call from Carrick. Mason Mount would be the obvious replacement, with Matheus Cunha also able to play as a No 10. Both would be experimental choices in choppy waters. Sunday's trip to Leeds, live on Sky Sports, is considered must-win. Dropping United's best player, however, carries significant symbolic weight, and if the decision backfires Carrick opens himself up to even greater criticism.
Fernandes has looked off it all season. Perhaps his legs were drained at the World Cup, or the burden of responsibility at Manchester United Football Club is weighing heavy. He has been the only thread of positivity and, as captain, must face media critics when results are unsatisfactory. Carrick has relied on him heavily, with Fernandes playing 96 per cent of available minutes under the manager, yet the dip is evident in his productivity and body language.
Source: Sky Sports Champions League · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing