Fernandes drops F-bomb and slams 'lies' as 10-game wait ends in Roma comeback

Bruno Fernandes delivered a defiant, expletive-laden post-match interview after Manchester United ended a 10-game winless streak by coming from behind to beat Roma 3-2 in the Champions League. The Portuguese midfielder scored a retaken penalty and assisted Matheus Cunha’s equaliser as Michael Carrick’s side sealed a dramatic victory.

Fernandes had seen his first penalty saved before the referee ordered a retake after spotting encroachment by a Roma player. Cunha then struck twice in four minutes to complete the turnaround and hand United a first win in 10 matches.

Speaking after the final whistle, Fernandes addressed the speculation surrounding his relationship with Carrick head-on. “There’s been a lot of speculation in the media, a lot of lies around between me and the manager that we had to clear the air,” he said. “None of that happened — the manager took a decision to put me on the bench because I wasn’t performing and that’s fair.”

Fernandes had been dropped for one game by Carrick following his public criticism of the manager’s tactics after United’s 4-1 defeat to Como. He acknowledged the decision was justified. “Everyone thought it was a punishment for the words that I had, and if it was, he was right — the manager is the one who makes the decision.”

The 32-year-old made clear that the episode had not dented his commitment to the club. “It doesn’t change the belief I have in the manager and the staff and every player in this club, and it doesn’t change my aim to win every f** game,” he said.

Fernandes also reflected on the toll the winless run had taken on players and supporters alike. “It’s been a long time, we didn’t get a win, it’s been frustrating for them as much as us,” he said. “Fans want to win games. They are used to seeing this club at the top, winning trophies, and it’s been frustrating to see the club in this situation.”

He expressed hope that the result could serve as a turning point. “Hopefully this win today gives us the start of something good for us.”

United host Aston Villa on Sunday in their final fixture before the international break.