Bruno Fernandes Appears to Criticize Michael Carrick via Social Media Post

Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has seemingly alluded to dissatisfaction with manager Michael Carrick through social media activity. On Sunday, less than 24 hours after being dropped for the team's 3-0 loss to Bournemouth, Fernandes liked an Instagram post that read, "Never push a loyal person to the point where they no longer care." The like was later reportedly removed.

Fernandes was reportedly benched for the Bournemouth match following his criticism of the team's tactics after their 4-1 Champions League defeat to Como earlier in the week. The captain suggested that the coaching staff's strategy of not pressing man-to-man had contributed to the team's struggles.

Carrick, who was appointed on a two-year deal in the summer, has faced mounting pressure with the team having won only two of their last 12 games and sitting 16th in the Premier League. The club's hierarchy is reportedly in crisis talks regarding his future following the home defeat.

Former Manchester United defender Gary Neville commented on Fernandes' actions, calling him an "excuse merchant." Neville contrasted Fernandes with former captains like Eric Cantona and Roy Keane, stating that they "weren't whingers about the tactics." He added, "Be positive. Do something with a positive influence as a captain. But he's not."

Neville noted that the Old Trafford supporters appeared to back Carrick, not Fernandes, during the Bournemouth match. He suggested Fernandes should "read the room" and refrain from criticizing the manager, especially after a significant defeat.

Carrick addressed the fans after the match with a lap of Old Trafford, but insisted it was not a farewell. "I'm carrying on as normal. I love this place. I'll always do what I feel is going to be the best for the football club and I won't change that now, whatever decision is made," he stated.

Carrick acknowledged the difficult situation and his responsibility. "It hurts an awful lot to see us going through this at this moment in time. The situation is where we are and we haven't had results or performances that have been good enough," he said, expressing empathy for his players.

However, not all players have publicly supported Carrick. While defender Harry Maguire stated that the players are "not doing enough" and need to "look in the mirror," former player Ashley Young accused the current squad of having "given up."