Michael Carrick has hinted that he will rotate Bruno Fernandes this season in a bid to get the best out of the Manchester United star. Fernandes, 31, enjoyed his best individual season to date last term, breaking the Premier League assist record with 21 while helping United qualify for the Champions League.
Contract uncertainty and Galatasaray interest
There is some doubt over the Red Devils captain's long-term future, having entered the final year of his contract at Old Trafford. Turkish giants Galatasaray had planned to test United's resolve by offering €50million (£43m) for his signature.
Now, though, United are in talks with Fernandes and his representatives over a new deal. The Portuguese wants to stay and Carrick has pledged to 'look after him' ahead of what could be a gruelling campaign for his side, as they prepare to fight on all fronts unlike the 2025-26 season.
Carrick's plans for Fernandes
"I've said quite a lot about Bruno, he's been a big part of the team and the club over recent times and had a huge impact, so he'll continue to do that," Carrick stated ahead of United's abject 2-0 defeat away to Hull on Saturday.
"In terms of the games and how it comes, hopefully he stays fit and he's in good shape. But yeah, there's the element talking about the squad and the depth, and as we go through the season and the waves and the momentum and keeping the boys in good form, but keeping them fresh as well."
"So Bruno's part of that. He's a big player for us, he's obviously our captain, but there's still elements where we need to look after him."
Midfield depth and fitness record
Part of why Fernandes has been so successful since joining the Red Devils in January 2020 has been his immaculate fitness record. The midfielder has only missed five games through injury in that time for both club and country.
But with the signings of Youri Tielemans, Andrey Santos and soon Carlos Baleba, Carrick has more options in midfield. Mason Mount also enjoyed a promising pre-season before he suffered a small hamstring tear.
"I know we've got a good midfield," Carrick added. "We've brought in some really top players and really good characters, which is important."
"We're trying to improve the squad all the time. As it stands now, we've got some very good, top midfielders to choose from. So I think we've improved that."
"You need a solid foundation through the middle of the team. I think if you look at all the great teams over the years, the spine is really strong. We're conscious of that, and I think we've got a good spine of the team right now."
