Manchester United manager Michael Carrick and captain Bruno Fernandes have held direct talks as the club attempts to settle tensions before Saturday’s Premier League meeting with Chelsea.
Fernandes was an unused substitute in Sunday’s heavy 3-0 defeat by Bournemouth, a decision that surprised those around the club.
The Portugal playmaker had been left out of the starting line-up as punishment for publicly criticising Carrick’s tactics after United’s humiliating 4-1 defeat by Como in the Champions League. His comments angered the coaching staff and intensified uncertainty around the manager.
Fernandes expected to return
Sources have told BBC Sport that Carrick and Fernandes met privately to address the issues between them and bring an end to the dispute. It remains unclear whether Fernandes, who was appointed United captain in 2023, formally apologised for his remarks.
The 31-year-old is expected to return to the starting XI for Saturday’s match against Chelsea, with United hoping his inclusion will help restore balance to the side.
Carrick stays in charge for now
Carrick had been widely expected to lose his job following the Bournemouth defeat. However, United’s board has decided to give him one final opportunity to lead the team at Stamford Bridge.
United are 16th in the Premier League and have won only one of their eight matches this season. Despite that poor record, board members do not believe Carrick is solely responsible for the club’s position.
Senior figures at United feel the players are also contributing significantly to the team’s struggles. They believe the squad is capable of qualifying for the Champions League but has been performing below expectations.
One player told BBC Sport: “We all feel a desire to put things right. The players, the coaching staff, everyone.”
Carrick received a boost on Wednesday when young midfielder Kobbie Mainoo returned to training after missing two weeks with an injury.
United draw up replacement shortlist
Although Carrick has been retained for the time being, sources have told BBC Sport that the club has already prepared a shortlist of possible replacements.
The names under consideration include former Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe and Julian Nagelsmann, the former Bayern Munich manager and current Germany manager.
A move for Howe would require United to pay Newcastle compensation worth millions of pounds, according to the sources. Nagelsmann, meanwhile, is available as a free agent.
United’s immediate focus is now on the Premier League fixture against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on 31 October 2026, with Carrick’s position and the team’s response under close scrutiny.