Michael Carrick holds clear-the-air talks with Bruno Fernandes after the Manchester United captain was benched against Bournemouth

Manchester United manager Michael Carrick has reportedly held clear-the-air talks with captain Bruno Fernandes following the midfielder’s omission from the team’s 3-0 defeat to Bournemouth ahead of their Premier League trip to Chelsea.

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The meeting comes after Fernandes remained on the bench for the entire match against Bournemouth last weekend, prompting speculation that the decision was linked to his criticism of Carrick’s tactics during United’s Champions League defeat to Como.

According to football transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, the manager and captain met face-to-face to address the situation before United’s next fixture.

“Michael Carrick and captain Bruno Fernandes have met face-to-face to clear the air after Portuguese star was benched for 90 minutes against Bournemouth,” Romano wrote on X.

He added that Fernandes was now expected to feature against Chelsea on Saturday.

Fernandes’ absence from the Bournemouth match attracted attention amid reports of disagreements over United’s tactical approach.

The Portugal international had reportedly criticised Carrick’s tactics following the defeat to Como in the Champions League, leading to speculation that his subsequent omission from the starting line-up could have been a disciplinary decision.

However, the source report did not establish that Carrick dropped the captain as punishment for those comments.

The reported meeting between the two men appears aimed at resolving any differences and ensuring the team remains focused ahead of a crucial Premier League encounter.

Carrick’s position had also come under scrutiny following United’s disappointing 3-0 loss to Bournemouth.

Despite the setback, the club’s hierarchy reportedly decided to retain him in charge ahead of the trip to Chelsea.

The upcoming fixture therefore presents an important opportunity for United to respond to their recent defeat, while the reported reconciliation between Carrick and Fernandes could help restore focus within the squad.

Fernandes’ expected return would also provide a potential boost for United, given his role as captain and his importance to the team’s midfield and attacking play.

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Manchester United are scheduled to face Chelsea on Saturday, with attention now turning to whether Fernandes will return to the starting line-up following the reported talks.