According to a report by the Evening Standard on Thursday, October 22, 2026, Bruno Fernandes has delivered a fresh assessment of Manchester United’s struggles, insisting the club must stop relying on its decorated past and focus on building a different future.

The Portuguese midfielder made the comments in a new interview with Sky Italia after United’s difficult run continued with a 4-1 Champions League defeat by Como on Wednesday. The result extended the club’s winless run to seven matches and increased the pressure on manager Michael Carrick.

Fernandes started the Como match but was substituted midway through the second half. The United captain appeared frustrated as he took his place on the bench during another disappointing night for the Red Devils.

Speaking after the match, Fernandes had already raised concerns about United’s tactical approach. In his latest interview, however, he focused on what he sees as a wider issue surrounding the club and its continued comparison with its successful past.

The midfielder said everyone at United needs to recognise that the club is no longer in the same position it occupied during previous periods of dominance. He added that the focus should now be on creating something new in the present rather than continually looking back at past achievements.

Fernandes also highlighted the difficulties faced by players who join United expecting to compete for major honours and perform at the highest level. He said those expectations have become increasingly difficult to fulfil at the club in recent years.

Manchester United’s current situation contrasts sharply with the era under Sir Alex Ferguson, who guided the club to 13 league titles during his 27-year tenure. United have not won the Premier League since Ferguson retired in 2013.

Fernandes acknowledged that the current spell has been difficult, with the team failing to collect the points and results expected of them. He stressed that performances have also fallen below the standards demanded by the players themselves.

The midfielder called for action to change the situation and restore winning results, making clear that improvement is now crucial for the team.

Carrick’s position has consequently come under increasing scrutiny, with uncertainty surrounding whether he will remain in charge for United’s Premier League meeting with Bournemouth this weekend. The club hierarchy is reportedly considering potential alternatives as it assesses the manager’s future.