Michael Carrick in 'sit-down talks' with Bruno Fernandes as Man United exit looms

Carrick and Fernandes held clear-the-air talks after the captain's public criticism, but tensions remain unresolved with the midfielder benched against Bournemouth.

Manchester United manager Michael Carrick met with captain Bruno Fernandes following the midfielder's public criticism of his tactics after the 4-1 defeat to Como. Fernandes questioned the manager and coaching staff in the aftermath of that loss, prompting Carrick to leave him on the bench for the entire 3-0 defeat against Bournemouth.

Former United chief scout Mick Brown told Football Insider that while Carrick and Fernandes held talks to clear the air, the meeting achieved little. Brown criticised Fernandes for airing grievances publicly rather than raising concerns privately with the manager first, calling it unhelpful and damaging. Despite the sit-down, the issues between them remain unresolved, with Fernandes' benching a clear signal of Carrick's displeasure.

The tension comes as Carrick faces mounting pressure on his position, with Brown warning his dismissal is now "inevitable". Separately, Fernandes' future at the club is also in doubt—the Portugal international is out of contract at season's end, and while United had planned to extend his deal, the club is now prepared to let him leave on a free transfer or permanent move next summer.