UCL: Fernandes, Carrick disagree over tactics after Man Utd’s 4-1 defeat
by Moronfolu Adeyemi · The Eagle OnlineManchester United captain Bruno Fernandes and head coach Michael Carrick have offered contrasting views on the team’s tactical approach following their 4-1 defeat to Como in the UEFA Champions League.
The heavy loss has intensified scrutiny of Carrick, whose side produced a disappointing performance that frustrated the 700 United supporters who travelled to watch the match.
Carrick apologised to the fans after the final whistle. His decision to cross the pitch and repeatedly raise his hands towards the supporters also attracted attention, recalling Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s reaction after United’s 4-1 defeat to Watford in November 2021. Solskjaer was dismissed as manager the following day.
However, Fernandes’ post-match assessment of the team’s tactics further fuelled discussion about United’s direction under Carrick.
Speaking to TNT Sports on Wednesday, the Portuguese midfielder questioned the decision not to press Como aggressively, arguing that the approach allowed their opponents to gain confidence and control the game.
“It’s a decision from the staff to not press man to man and sometimes leave space behind and try to get the ball, but sometimes when you give too much the ball to these teams they get confidence,” Fernandes said.
Asked whether Carrick had got his tactics wrong, the United captain stopped short of directly criticising his manager but made clear that responsibility for the team’s approach rested with the coaching staff.
“That’s on the manager and staff to see it, not me. Sometimes you have to be more brave under pressure, take the risk of pressing high and making them uncomfortable,” he added.
Also Read:
- Carragher slams Fernandes: You wouldn’t have won Player of the Year without Carrick
- Kane scores in 10th straight Champions League match, closes in on Ronaldo
- Haaland declared fit for Man City’s clash with Aston Villa
- Why opposition eyes can’t see the colours of a rainbow by Azu Ishiekwene
- JMG advocates quality standards to match Nigeria’s clean energy ambitions
Fernandes’ comments pointed to his belief that United needed to take greater risks when pressing opponents, particularly to prevent them from settling into their rhythm and building confidence in possession.
Carrick was later informed of his captain’s remarks during his post-match press conference and responded by emphasising the importance of effort, regardless of the tactical system being used.
“There’s a little bit of whatever system you play, whatever tactics you play, if you don’t run, and you don’t run forward, and you don’t run back, you aren’t going to win,” the United boss said.
Although Carrick did not mention Fernandes directly, his response placed greater emphasis on the players’ work rate and commitment than on the tactical concerns raised by the midfielder.
The contrasting remarks have attracted attention given Fernandes’ position as captain and his importance to the team. His comments could increase the pressure on Carrick, who is already facing questions following the disappointing result.
However, Fernandes did not explicitly call for his manager to be dismissed, while Carrick did not directly accuse his captain of undermining him.
The defeat has nevertheless raised questions about United’s tactical direction, the players’ execution of the game plan and the level of alignment between the squad and coaching staff.
Carrick now faces the challenge of rebuilding confidence, improving performances and ensuring his players deliver the intensity required in their upcoming matches.
[wpadcenter_ad id='745970' align='none']