Rooney Urges Carrick to Bench Fernandes Before 'Explosion'

Wayne Rooney has advised Manchester United manager Michael Carrick to remove Bruno Fernandes from the team to prevent the player from having a detrimental outburst. Rooney expressed concern that Fernandes, 32, appears "fed up" with the team's performance and could voice damaging opinions if the situation persists.

Fernandes has experienced a subdued season compared to his usual high standards, managing only one "big chance" created and averaging 2.6 chances per 90 minutes, his second-lowest rate with the club. This contrasts sharply with his performance at the end of the previous season, where he contributed to 12 goals in the final 11 games, helping United secure Champions League qualification. He finished last Premier League season with 12 assists, tying the record previously held by Thierry Henry and Kevin De Bruyne.

Manchester United currently sits 13th in the Premier League, with only one win in their last six matches. Following a recent 1-1 draw against Tottenham, where United conceded a late equalizer, Fernandes was seen leaving Old Trafford with his head down, visibly frustrated. His performance in that match mirrored the team's struggles, as he did not complete his first pass until the 23rd minute.

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Rooney elaborated on his concerns during a segment on "Stick to United," stating, "He's fed up. I genuinely do think he looks 'oh here we go again'. There are only so many times. He has carried the team, but sometimes you need taking out of that position, of that role, to breathe again. I feel like now you can see it building up and there's going to be an explosion with him if this carries on." He added, "He's not scared to come out and voice his opinion. So there is going to be that explosion if this carries on the way it's going."

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Rooney also suggested a need for a more robust midfield presence, noting, "For me you need that three in midfield at the minute because they're getting outrun, they're getting outplayed. All of a sudden then you've got [Kobbie] Mainoo and [Youri] Tielemans, who are both not the quickest and not the most mobile, to cover the full width of the pitch as two midfield players, and they can't do it."

Despite these concerns, Carrick confirmed that Fernandes has been playing through a minor knock for about a month, a common occurrence for players. Carrick stated that Fernandes is largely recovered and was "really bright" in training, looking forward to the next match. He acknowledged that many players in the squad manage minor issues throughout their careers, emphasizing Fernandes' commitment to playing.