Carrick, Fernandes Hold Crisis Talks Ahead Of Man Utd’s Chelsea Clash

United boss retains board’s backing despite poor results as captain’s return to starting line-up remains possible

Manchester United head coach Michael Carrick and captain Bruno Fernandes have held a private meeting to address tensions between them ahead of Saturday’s Premier League trip to Chelsea.

The meeting took place at United’s training ground on Tuesday, with both men given the opportunity to discuss their concerns following recent disagreements, according to BBC Sport.

Fernandes, 32, was an unused substitute in United’s 3-0 home defeat by Bournemouth on Sunday, having reportedly criticised Carrick’s tactics after the club’s 4-1 Champions League loss to Como.

It remains unclear whether the Portugal international apologised for his comments during the meeting.

Fernandes, who was appointed United captain in 2023, could return to the starting line-up when the Red Devils face Chelsea at Stamford Bridge at 12.30 GMT on Saturday.

Carrick, 45, had been widely expected to lose his job following the defeat by Bournemouth, but the club’s hierarchy have decided to retain him for the Chelsea fixture, giving him an opportunity to improve the team’s fortunes.

United are 16th in the Premier League and have managed just one victory in their opening eight league matches, leaving the club under mounting pressure to turn around their season.

Despite the disappointing results, senior figures at Old Trafford do not believe Carrick is solely responsible for the team’s struggles.

According to the report, the club’s hierarchy believe the squad has sufficient quality to qualify for the Champions League but has performed well below expectations, with players also expected to take responsibility for the poor results.

One United player told BBC Sport: “The feeling is that we all want to put it right. Players, staff, everyone.”

Meanwhile, United have reportedly identified former Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe and former Germany and Bayern Munich coach Julian Nagelsmann as potential replacements should they decide to part ways with Carrick.

Appointing Howe would reportedly trigger a multi-million-pound compensation claim from Newcastle, while Nagelsmann is currently a free agent.

Carrick has also received a boost ahead of the Chelsea encounter, with midfielder Kobbie Mainoo returning to training on Wednesday after spending two weeks on the sidelines with an injury.

The meeting with Fernandes represents an attempt to address internal tensions as United prepare for a crucial fixture in their bid to revive their struggling Premier League campaign.