According to a report by the Evening Standard on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, Bruno Fernandes has dismissed suggestions that Manchester United’s dramatic 3-2 victory over Roma was necessary to save manager Michael Carrick’s job, insisting that the result was more important for the club and its players.

The Red Devils captain made the comments after United recovered from an alarming start to secure a much-needed Champions League victory at Old Trafford, bringing an end to their difficult run of results and easing the pressure surrounding Carrick.

United entered the encounter having endured nine consecutive matches without a win, with growing uncertainty over the manager’s future following heavy defeats against Bournemouth and Como.

The 3-0 loss to Bournemouth and a subsequent 4-1 defeat against Como intensified criticism of Carrick, while another setback against Chelsea further increased concerns about the direction of the team.

Those questions appeared to become even more serious when Roma raced into a 2-0 lead inside the opening 18 minutes through Matias Soule and Donyell Malen.

The disappointing start also coincided with protests from sections of the home supporters, who threw gold and green balloons and tennis balls onto the pitch. Chants expressing dissatisfaction with the club’s leadership were also directed towards the directors’ box, where Jason Wilcox and Omar Berrada were watching.

However, United eventually produced a spirited comeback to claim all three points, with Matheus Cunha playing a decisive role in the dramatic victory.

Fernandes experienced a mixed evening, having initially missed a penalty before being handed another opportunity after an encroachment by a Roma player allowed the spot-kick to be retaken.

The Portuguese midfielder subsequently addressed the speculation surrounding his relationship with Carrick, particularly after being left out of the starting line-up against Bournemouth following his criticism of the manager’s approach in the defeat to Como.

Fernandes acknowledged that his omission was a managerial decision based on his performances and accepted that Carrick had the authority to make such decisions.

He also dismissed suggestions that the manager needed rescuing, explaining that the victory was essential for the entire team and coaching staff.

According to the captain, he had already cleared the air with Carrick, adding that speculation and reports surrounding disagreements within the club had not accurately represented what happened.

Fernandes maintained that his confidence in the manager, coaching staff and teammates remained unchanged despite the difficult period.

He also expressed hope that the comeback against Roma would represent a turning point in Manchester United’s season.