Bruno Fernandes has posted a four-word tribute to Michael Carrick on Instagram after Manchester United confirmed the former midfielder's exit as manager. The club parted ways with Carrick on Thursday following weeks of speculation over a potential move for Mauricio Pochettino.
Carrick had been overseeing training sessions while reports about United's pursuit of Pochettino dominated the headlines. The former Reds midfielder did not always appear to see eye-to-eye with Fernandes, who criticised the manager's approach in the 4-1 away loss to Como in the Champions League.
Fernandes pays tribute after Carrick exit
After Carrick's exit was confirmed in an official statement, Fernandes took to social media to honour the departed boss. Accompanied by a photograph of himself and Carrick exchanging a handshake on the pitch, Fernandes wrote: "Thanks for everything, boss."
The message came after a period of tension between the pair. Barely a fortnight after the Como defeat, following the 4-4 draw with Aston Villa, the United captain condemned the "lies" that circulated in the aftermath of his critical remarks in Italy.
Captain defends Carrick amid speculation
Despite the earlier friction, Fernandes defended Carrick after the Villa result and challenged reports he believed were "lies." He said: "It's been tough, there's been a lot of speculation in the media. A lot of lies around many things that have happened between me and the manager."
"That we have cleared the air, then after that the manager took the decision to put me on the bench because I'm not performing. That's fair. Everyone thought that was a punishment for the words that I had. And, if it was, it was right. The manager is the one who makes the decisions."
"It doesn't change the belief I have of the manager and the staff and every player in this club. It doesn't change my aim to win every game that I have ahead of me."
Fernandes key under Carrick
During the previous campaign, Fernandes was instrumental for Carrick, driving United to a third-place finish. Throughout their partnership, he registered 11 goals and 17 assists across 34 outings.
Fernandes may now be preparing for a new chapter under Pochettino, given how close the Argentine is to becoming United's next manager.
