Manchester United head coach Michael Carrick and captain Bruno Fernandes have reportedly held talks to resolve tensions following the midfielder’s omission from the team’s 3-0 defeat to Bournemouth.
The meeting reportedly took place at the club’s Carrington training ground on Tuesday, with both men keen to put the disagreement behind them and focus on improving United’s results.
Football transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano reported on X on Wednesday that the discussions were productive, adding that Fernandes was expected to feature in Saturday’s Premier League trip to Chelsea.
The talks follow Fernandes’ public criticism of United’s tactics after their 4-1 Champions League defeat to Como on October 21.
The Portugal international questioned the coaching staff’s decision not to press opponents man-to-man, arguing that allowing teams too much space and possession gave them confidence to control matches.
Fernandes also stressed the need for United to show greater bravery under pressure.
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His comments attracted further attention after Carrick left him on the bench throughout the subsequent Bournemouth defeat at Old Trafford on October 25.
Defender Harry Maguire wore the captain’s armband in Fernandes’ absence, while Carrick maintained that leaving the midfielder out of the starting line-up was a footballing decision.
United’s poor run of results has intensified scrutiny of Carrick, whose side have gone eight matches without a win across competitions.
The losses to Como and Bournemouth have increased pressure on the coach as the club prepares for Saturday’s visit to Stamford Bridge.
Fernandes’ possible return to the starting line-up would provide United with an experienced creative presence as they seek to improve their performances.
However, the reported meeting has not been accompanied by an official announcement from the club confirming the details of the discussions or Fernandes’ selection for the Chelsea match.
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