Carragher says United players may welcome Fernandes' benching

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag left Bruno Fernandes out of the starting lineup for the Premier League clash with Bournemouth, a decision that former Liverpool and England defender Jamie Carragher said could help unite the squad. Carragher, speaking on Sky Sports, noted that while Fernandes is widely regarded as United’s best player, many teammates may find it difficult to play alongside him because of his on-field demeanor.

"He is Manchester United’s best player, we can’t get away from that, PFA Player of the Year last year," Carragher said, adding that the captain’s tendency to raise his arms at opponents can create tension in the dressing room. "You’re hoping this could bring us together as a group, because confidence is low and the players need to enjoy playing football with each other."

United’s captain Michael Carrick defended the selection, describing it as a purely football-based decision. Carragher questioned the honesty often required in football, suggesting that clubs present a more positive front than the reality inside. Former United winger Ashley Young echoed the view that Fernandes could face mixed reactions from fans, including boos, given his recent comments aimed at the manager.

Both pundits agreed that United’s recent seven-match winless run has heightened pressure on the team to deliver a positive result against Bournemouth.