Bruno Fernandes has appeared to send a pointed message to Manchester United and manager Michael Carrick after the club captain was left on the bench for the team's 3-0 defeat to Bournemouth on Sunday.
The 32-year-old skipper watched from the sidelines as United were beaten for the second time in five days. Fernandes had started against Como 1907 on Wednesday evening but was substituted for Joshua Zirkzee, and he criticised Carrick's tactics after that Champions League match. His comments led to him being dropped for the loss to the Cherries.
Social Media Post Sparks Reaction
After not being brought on during the game, Fernandes was spotted by fans having liked an Instagram post that many interpreted as a message to his boss. The post, which featured an AI-generated image, read: "Never push a loyal person to the point where they no longer care."
Supporters reacted on X, formerly known as Twitter. "Damn," one fan said, sharing a screenshot of the post. "Can't blame him. Gave his best years to the club and it was all for nothing," a second fan wrote. "This is not looking good at all," a third shared, while another added: "We cannot underestimate the potential impact on the dressing room as a result of a fallout with Bruno Fernandes..."
Carrick's Future Uncertain
Carrick's position at the club looks increasingly uncertain, with just two wins in all competitions this season. Speaking to Sky Sports after the full-time whistle, Carrick was asked about his future after he appeared to wave goodbye to the United fans.
"It wasn't from me. I'm feeling mixed emotions. I feel for the players as they are going through a tough spell. Some of it we can help, for some the situation unravels. The boys are feeling it," he said.
"I have mixed emotions to have that connection with the supporters in the moment we're in. I need time to digest that. I appreciate their support but the situation is where it's at. We haven't been good enough."
He added: "It's a tough situation. What is next? I don't know. I'll always do what's best for this football club. I don't change that now. I love what I do. I love the responsibility. But we'll have to wait and see."
