Scholes says Fernandes is 'finished' at United after 'unforgivable' Carrick criticism

Paul Scholes has declared Bruno Fernandes effectively finished at Manchester United after the club captain publicly undermined manager Michael Carrick in the wake of a 4-1 Champions League defeat to Como, compounded by a 3-0 Premier League loss to Bournemouth at Old Trafford.

Fernandes was substituted during the Como game, with Joshua Zirkzee brought on in his place as Carrick sought a cutting edge in attack. The Portuguese midfielder visibly shook his head in frustration as he left the pitch at the Stadio Giuseppe Sinigaglia. He then went further in his post-match media comments, suggesting the coaching staff’s decision to avoid man-to-man pressing had allowed Como to grow in confidence and left United’s legs and minds drained by the time they recovered the ball.

Carrick responded directly in his own press conference, making clear that his system demands his players run. Fernandes was dropped to the bench for the subsequent defeat to Bournemouth.

Speaking on the Good, the Bad and the Football podcast, Scholes — who made more than 700 appearances for United — was unsparing in his verdict. “What Bruno Fernandes said last week, I think that’s unforgivable,” the 51-year-old said. “How can Bruno Fernandes be trusted to be captain of any team he ever goes to now? I think he probably needs to get away from European football and just go to Saudi, just get out the way. I don’t think any manager, any member of staff can trust him after that.”

Former United academy director Nicky Butt echoed the sentiment, arguing that Fernandes had squandered a hard-earned legacy at the club. “He’s been the only player for the last 12, 13 years that’s gone, ‘I know what it means to play for this football club and I’m good enough to play football and I’m going to carry it on my shoulders,’” Butt said. “And he’s killed himself in one interview. Stupid.”

The fallout deepens an already turbulent period for United, who have now conceded seven goals across two matches under Carrick. Reports suggest the club could part ways with the manager in the coming days or weeks if results do not improve, adding further uncertainty to Fernandes’s own position at Old Trafford.