Roy Keane’s brutal Bruno Fernandes criticism resurfaces as pressure grows on Michael Carrick

Roy Keane's previous criticism of Bruno Fernandes' leadership has taken on fresh relevance after the Manchester United captain questioned the team's tactical approach following Wednesday's 4-1 Champions League defeat to Como.

United are now without a victory in seven matches, increasing the pressure on head coach Michael Carrick.

Fernandes' post-match comments drew criticism from former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher, who described the captain's decision to question the tactical approach publicly as a disgrace.

Keane had raised similar concerns about Fernandes' leadership in November 2024, following Erik ten Hag's dismissal.

Fernandes apologised to Ten Hag after the Dutchman lost his job at Manchester United in October 2024.

Speaking to Sky Sports at the time, the Portugal international acknowledged that the players had contributed to the manager's departure through their performances.

He explained that he felt responsible for United's struggles and had personally apologised to Ten Hag.

Keane was unimpressed by the gesture, describing it as "too little, too late".

The former United captain argued that Fernandes had failed to demonstrate sufficient leadership during difficult matches and questioned whether his performances had helped Ten Hag.

Keane also criticised the wider squad, suggesting that players often focus on the next managerial appointment rather than taking sufficient responsibility for the previous manager's dismissal.

Those comments were made in November 2024, rather than in response to United's latest defeat.

Fernandes faced fresh criticism after United were comprehensively beaten by Como in Italy.

Nico Paz scored twice for the hosts, while Anastasios Douvikas and Jacobo Ramón were also on target. Joshua Zirkzee scored United's consolation goal in stoppage time.

Speaking to TNT Sports afterwards, Fernandes questioned United's decision not to press Como man-to-man, arguing that allowing the Italian side time and space had increased their confidence.

He suggested that United needed to be braver when pressing opponents.

However, when asked whether Carrick's tactics were wrong, Fernandes said that was for the manager and his coaching staff to assess.

Carrick subsequently explained that United had attempted a partial man-to-man press during the second half but conceded another goal.

The United manager also stressed that tactical systems were ineffective without sufficient effort and intensity from the players.

Carragher was particularly critical of Fernandes' decision to discuss the tactical approach publicly.

Speaking on CBS Sports, the former Liverpool defender described the comments as a disgrace and questioned the captain's attitude.

Carragher argued that Fernandes had benefited considerably from Carrick's management last season and should not have directed criticism towards the coaching staff after another poor result.

The controversy follows an earlier public dispute involving United defender Lisandro Martínez.

Martínez criticised the club's recruitment strategy and football director Jason Wilcox after the Champions League defeat to Atlético Madrid earlier this month.

The Argentina international subsequently apologised for his comments and held discussions with the club.

Manchester United host Bournemouth at Old Trafford on Sunday, 25 October, as they attempt to end their seven-match winless run.

Carrick will be looking for a response from his players after apologising to supporters following the Como defeat.

Fernandes' comments and Carragher's criticism have added to the scrutiny surrounding the club ahead of another important Premier League fixture.