Michael Carrick has dismissed speculation that Bruno Fernandes could leave Manchester United this summer, insisting the Portugal international remains a key part of his plans. The 31-year-old was crowned the Football Writers' Association (FWA) Footballer of the Year on Friday, capping a remarkable campaign in which he has been instrumental in United's resurgence under Carrick.
Fernandes' Stellar Season
Fernandes has registered 19 assists in the Premier League this term, leaving him just one shy of the record jointly held by Kevin De Bruyne and Thierry Henry. His performances have been central to United's climb back into the Champions League places, with qualification secured with three games to spare. The United captain could have moved to Saudi Arabia last summer but turned down the offer, and Carrick believes the playmaker is content at Old Trafford.
“I think Bruno, you can see he’s happy and he’s playing some fantastic football,” Carrick said. “Maybe he’s as good as he’s played over here and he’s had really good spells here. So, he looks happy, I think he’s got a big end to the season here. He’s got a big summer of course. But, yeah, as a football club we love having him here. He’s a big part of what we do.”
Carrick's Own Future
Carrick himself has exceeded expectations since taking over as head coach in January, leading the team to Champions League qualification with a short-term deal that expires this summer. He remains relaxed about his own future, acknowledging that the club is conducting a process to find a permanent successor. “I think there’s a process,” he said. “I think it’s pretty obvious there’s going to be a process. I think that was from the outset in terms of finding someone to fill the position ultimately in the end.”
Transfer Plans Underway
Despite the uncertainty, Carrick is already planning for next season, with midfield reinforcements a priority following Casemiro's departure. “There is background planning for what the squad needs to look like and evolve and that’s other conversations that are going on,” Carrick added. “How quickly that happens, I haven’t got an answer for you right now. Recruitment is the obvious one and when it gets to this time of year it’s what everyone wants to know about and understandably so.”
United's immediate focus is on Saturday's trip to Sunderland, where Lisandro Martinez is available after a three-match ban and Benjamin Sesko is being assessed after a shin issue forced him off in last Sunday's 3-2 win over Liverpool.
