Bruno Fernandes Questions Man United Tactics After Como Loss

Michael Carrick, the head coach of Manchester United, faces growing criticism as the 2026/27 season unfolds poorly for the club. Sitting 13th in the Premier League after just one win from seven matches, the team has only two wins across all competitions. Their latest setback was a humiliating 4-1 loss to Como, adding pressure on the squad and coaching staff.

Following this defeat, captain Bruno Fernandes openly questioned the tactical decisions made during the game, seemingly pointing to Carrick's approach as part of the problem. This sparked backlash against both Fernandes and Carrick, with many viewing the captain’s remarks as inappropriate for his leadership role.

Fernandes Speaks Out on Match Tactics

After the loss to Como, Bruno Fernandes addressed the tactical setup, suggesting it lacked aggression. "It's a decision from the staff not to press man-to-man and sometimes leave space behind to try and regain the ball. But when you give too much possession to teams like these, they gain confidence," Fernandes said.

When asked if Carrick’s tactics were at fault, Fernandes replied, "That's for the manager and staff to decide, not me. Sometimes you have to be braver under pressure, take risks by pressing high and unsettling the opposition." Throughout Carrick's tenure this season, the team has rarely adopted an intense high-pressing style.

Carrick Defends His Approach

Michael Carrick responded to Fernandes’ comments during the post-match press conference. He highlighted that the team did attempt man-to-man pressing in the second half but conceded a goal during that period. "We were half pressing man-to-man and still gave up a goal. No matter the tactics or system, if you don't work hard going forward and back, you won’t win," Carrick stated.

Former Players Criticize Fernandes' Remarks

Ex-players turned pundits Jamie Carragher and Joe Cole criticized Fernandes for questioning the manager publicly. Cole told TNT Sports, "You can't question tactics while captain. That's sacrilege. I’ve played under managers whose tactics I didn't agree with, but you don’t air that publicly." He added that Fernandes didn’t even fully commit to his critique, which made it seem disingenuous.

Carragher expressed similar views on CBS Sports in the US: "Last week, Lisandro Martinez was criticized for challenging the hierarchy, and Fernandes doing the same is disgraceful. He won Player of the Year last season largely due to Carrick becoming manager. He wouldn’t have received that without Carrick."

Summary of the Situation

Manchester United sits 13th in the Premier League after seven matches.
The team has only two wins across all competitions this season.
Bruno Fernandes questioned the tactical decisions following a 4-1 loss to Como.
Michael Carrick defended his tactical choices, citing risks involved in pressing strategies.
Former players Jamie Carragher and Joe Cole condemned Fernandes’ public criticism.