Manchester United head coach Michael Carrick and captain Bruno Fernandes have held face-to-face talks to resolve tensions following a public disagreement over the team’s tactics, with both men now focused on reviving the club’s struggling season.
According to a report published by Sky Sports on Wednesday, October 28, 2026, the pair met at United’s training ground on Tuesday for an open and frank discussion after their relationship came under scrutiny following a string of disappointing results.
The meeting came after Fernandes was left on the bench for the entire match as United suffered a 3-0 home defeat to Bournemouth on Sunday, October 25. Carrick described his decision to leave out the club captain as a matter of “pure football”, insisting that his selections were based on what he believed was best for the team.
Fernandes’ omission followed his public criticism of United’s tactical approach during their humiliating 4-1 Champions League defeat to Como. The Portuguese midfielder questioned the team’s defensive approach, arguing that United needed to apply greater pressure and take more risks when pressing opponents.
“That’s on the manager and on the staff to see it, it’s not on me,” Fernandes said when asked about the responsibility for the tactical decisions. He added that United needed to be “more brave on the pressure” and press higher to make opponents uncomfortable.
Carrick had previously maintained that the team’s interests would take priority amid the growing tension, telling reporters: “Whatever the situation is, I will always do what is best for the football club.” Sky Sports +1
The latest discussions reportedly took place alongside a wider meeting involving the entire squad, during which players and staff acknowledged that performances had fallen below expectations and agreed that immediate improvement was necessary. It remains unclear whether Fernandes apologised for his public remarks during his meeting with Carrick. Radio Royal +1
The talks come at a critical moment for United, with Carrick under mounting pressure following an eight-match winless run that has left the club 16th in the Premier League, just one point above the relegation zone, according to Reuters.
United are now preparing for a challenging trip to Stamford Bridge to face Chelsea on Saturday, October 31, with Fernandes expected to be in contention for selection as Carrick looks to restore stability and improve the team’s results.
The outcome of the meeting could prove significant as United attempt to rebuild confidence, repair relations within the dressing room and get their season back on track.
