Carragher criticizes Fernandes over remarks after Manchester United defeat
The United captain discussed the coaching staff’s pressing instructions after a 4-1 loss to Como, prompting criticism from the former Liverpool defender.
Jamie Carragher criticized Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes for appearing to question head coach Michael Carrick’s tactics after United lost 4-1 to Como in the Champions League. Speaking on CBS Sports, the former Liverpool defender also argued that United needed to replace Carrick.
Fernandes said after the match that the coaching staff had decided against man-to-man pressing, sometimes leaving space behind. Carrick, who substituted Fernandes in the 67th minute while United trailed 3-0, responded by stressing that no tactical system could succeed without players running forward and back.
Carragher suggested Fernandes had reacted out of embarrassment at being substituted and accused him of pressing without discipline, to the detriment of his teammates. He also argued that Carrick deserved credit for helping Fernandes win Player of the Year last season by restoring him to his preferred position.
Despite calling for a coaching change, Carragher credited Carrick with securing United’s Champions League qualification and said the club’s problems extended beyond the manager. United next host Bournemouth at Old Trafford in the Premier League, seeking their first victory after seven matches without a win across all competitions.
