Carragher brands Fernandes a disgrace for blaming Carrick after United's 4-1 collapse at Como

Jamie Carragher has branded Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes a ‘disgrace’ after the Portuguese midfielder publicly criticised manager Michael Carrick following United’s 4-1 defeat to Como in Serie A. Fernandes, substituted in the 66th minute as Nico Paz’s double inspired Cesc Fabregas’ side to a commanding win, directed blame at Carrick in his post-match media appearance — a move Carragher condemned without reservation.

Speaking on CBS Sports, the former Liverpool defender argued that Fernandes’ outburst was driven by personal embarrassment at being hauled off rather than any genuine tactical grievance. “For Bruno Fernandes to do that is a disgrace really,” Carragher said. “He’s reacted like that because he’s been brought off and he’s been embarrassed by the manager.”

Carragher also used the moment to level a broader criticism at Fernandes’ playing style, claiming the 30-year-old has long undermined United’s ability to press effectively. “When he talks about pressing, man-to-man or zonal, for years, Bruno Fernandes has meant Manchester United can’t press,” he said. “He runs all over and plays like a kid in the schoolyard — he plays for the supporters, it looks like he’s working hard, he’s not, he’s killing the team doing it.”

The pundit also pointed to Fernandes’ recent form as context for the criticism, noting that Carrick’s appointment had directly benefited the skipper last season. “When you think about last season he got Player of the Season — that was off the back of Michael Carrick becoming manager. He wouldn’t have got that without Michael Carrick because he got put back in his rightful position.”

Fernandes was not alone in attracting scrutiny after the Como defeat. Lisandro Martinez also made pointed comments during post-match media appearances, and Carragher had already criticised the Argentine defender the previous week for calling out the club’s hierarchy.

Carragher closed his remarks by invoking the standard of former United captain Bryan Robson as a contrast. “Years ago, there was a captain called Bryan Robson, one of the greatest players to ever play for Man United because he played for the club — he didn’t throw the manager or the players under the bus,” he said. “Watching him throw his arms up every week in a game is an absolute disgrace, calling the manager out considering how he’s performed this season.”