Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has been photographed meeting with the club's former assistant manager, Carlos Fernandes, just days after a major coaching clear-out at Old Trafford.
Post-Sacking Coffee Meeting Sparks Interest
The encounter occurred on Tuesday evening at a coffee shop in Cheshire, with images showing the pair leaving around 6pm. This meeting follows the dramatic exit of head coach Ruben Amorim and his entire backroom staff on Monday, January 6th, 2026.
The departures came swiftly after a 1-1 draw with Leeds United and a post-match press conference where tensions between Amorim and the club hierarchy became apparent. Alongside Amorim, assistants Carlos Fernandes, Adelio Candido, Emanuel Ferro, goalkeeping coach Jorge Vital, and fitness coach Paulo Barreira all left the club.
Farewell Messages and Managerial Hunt Begins
Carlos Fernandes later took to Instagram to bid farewell, posting a series of photos from his time at United. He wrote: "Thank you, Manchester United... A special chapter in my life. Proud to have served as Assistant Manager of Manchester United."
With the managerial seat now vacant, United are urgently seeking an interim boss. Discussions are reportedly underway with former managers Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, Michael Carrick, and Ruud van Nistelrooy to take charge until the season's end. Solskjaer is understood to be the current frontrunner.
Fletcher Steps In Temporarily
For United's immediate fixture against Burnley on Wednesday night, U18 head coach Darren Fletcher will take temporary charge. He will be supported by a staff including former defender Jonny Evans.
When asked about the permanent manager's role, Fletcher stated his focus was solely on the upcoming match. "It's surreal, it's an amazing honour to be able to lead a Manchester United team," he said. "I didn't think in my wildest dreams that was something that could happen."
The club is expected to make a decision on a short-term appointment following the Burnley game, as they navigate a period of significant upheaval.
