Bruno Fernandes breaks silence on Michael Carrick exit after slamming Man Utd ways
Bruno Fernandes slammed Michael Carrick’s tactics after the 4-1 Champions League defeat to Como last month, but took to Instagram after the head coach’s exit was confirmed
Manchester United manager Michael Carrick hugs Bruno Fernandes(Image: Simon Stacpoole/Offside/Offside via Getty Images)
Bruno Fernandes has paid tribute to outgoing Manchester United boss Michael Carrick – while the captain stalls on a new contract to stay at the club himself.
Fernandes had slammed Carrick’s tactics after the 4-1 Champions League defeat to Como last month, but took to Instagram Stories after his exit was confirmed.
The PFA Player of the Year shared a photo of himself and Carrick shaking hands with a brief four-word message: “Thanks for everything, boss.” Harry Maguire was the first United player to react to the news, saying: “Will always be a legend. Respect. Thank you.”
Bruno’s Instagram Stories message to Carrick
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According to The Athletic, 32-year-old Fernandes has rejected United’s second offer to extend his contract, which is due to end next summer.
The report suggests Fernandes is not yet satisfied – and further negotiations are anticipated. United will be keen he puts pen to paper before he is allowed to speak to potential new clubs n January.
Carrick and Fernandes held clear-the-air talks after the comments in the wake of the Como calamity, which saw the Portuguese star dropped for the Premier League match at home to Bournemouth.
Carrick and Fernandes met at United’s Carrington training ground for talks and was available for selection one again. However, Carrick was finally relieved of his duties on Thursday after the 4-4 draw against Aston Villa.
Michael Carrick was sacked by Manchester United on Thursday morning(Image: Martin Rickett/Press Association)
Manchester United are now looking to appoint former Tottenham and Chelsea boss Pochettino, who is currently head coach of the United States.
United announced Carrick’s sacking on Thursday morning in a statement on their website, which reads: “Manchester United can confirm that Michael Carrick has departed his role as men’s first-team head coach.
“Michael rejoined the club in January and guided the team to a third-placed Premier League finish by winning 12 out of the remaining 17 games of the 2025/26 season, accumulating the highest points tally in the league during that period.
“After a disappointing start to the season, the club has come to the extremely difficult conclusion that a change is necessary in order to achieve our ambitions.
“Michael is, and always will be, a Manchester United legend. Just as he did as a player, he has conducted himself with the highest standards of dedication and professionalism throughout his time back with the club. His leadership and achievements last season will always be fondly remembered.
“The club intends to appoint a permanent successor as quickly as possible.”
