Michael Carrick has defended Bruno Fernandes' captaincy of Manchester United, responding to Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's past criticism by saying "there are different ways to lead."
Fernandes' role as captain has been questioned this week for the first time since he was given the armband, after he expressed concerns with Carrick's tactics in an interview following the defeat to Como. Carrick dropped Fernandes for the match against Bournemouth last weekend and left him on the bench while making five substitutions. The pair have since held clear-the-air talks at Carrington to put the episode behind them.
Solskjaer's View on Fernandes
Fernandes was appointed United captain by Erik ten Hag in the summer of 2023, replacing Harry Maguire, who had been selected by Solskjaer. Solskjaer later explained his choice of Maguire, saying Fernandes was "too passionate at times and loses a bit of control."
Speaking in his pre-match press conference ahead of United's weekend clash with Chelsea, Carrick was reminded of Solskjaer's opinion and responded in defence of the Portugal international.
Carrick's Response
"I don't think it's about comparing opinions to others," said Carrick. "He's the captain of our football club. There are different personalities, different characteristics, different ways to lead."
"It all comes down to what happens on the football pitch and whether you win or not in the end. All the questions get asked. I understand why you're asking them now. He cares deeply about this football club and about the team and he's desperate to do well. We'll lead that together."
Carrick also addressed the squad dynamic following Fernandes' comments after the Como match. "It's important, of course it is. Both ways, I think it's important that we have that connection," he said.
"That's pretty obvious to say for any team. We have got that, I have to say we have got that. At the moment it's easy to question a lot of things, and I totally accept why and what it looks like, but I have absolutely no issue with that regard. We need to play better and we need to show certain things better. The connection with us is as strong as ever."
Support Off the Pitch
Club figures noted Fernandes as being back to his "best version" this week after a challenging period on and off the pitch. Fernandes' family home was burgled while United played Como in Italy, and United have provided support to the midfielder and his family.
