Fernandes fallout could spark January exit at Manchester United

Well, this one has all the makings of a proper Old Trafford soap opera. Bruno Fernandes, United’s captain and one of the club’s biggest names, is now being linked with a January departure after what is being described as a breakdown in his relationship with the hierarchy.

The Portugal international was left out for the 3-0 defeat to Bournemouth, with Michael Carrick choosing to leave him on the bench even as the match drifted away and the pressure piled up. Before that, Fernandes had already gone public with his frustration after the 4-1 loss to Como, taking aim at the coaching staff and their tactics. That kind of thing rarely ends well at a club like United, does it?

Carrick was thought to be on the brink after an awful run of eight games without a win and just two victories in 12 across all competitions this season. Yet he has been handed more time to sort the mess out, and that only adds another layer of uncertainty around Fernandes’ future.

According to reports in Italy, the 32-year-old’s relationship with the club is said to have completely broken down, with a move away in January not being ruled out. His contract is due to expire at the end of the season, although United do have the option to extend it by 12 months. In other words, they are not powerless here, and they could still demand a fee if they decide to cash in.

There is also the small matter of money. Fernandes reportedly has a €65m (£54m) release clause for European clubs, and that has alerted AC Milan. Ruben Amorim, the former United boss, is said to be keen on a reunion with his fellow Portuguese, but Milan would have to stretch themselves badly to make it happen. His wages alone would put their finances under serious pressure, with the player needing to become their top earner to force the deal through.

There is no question Fernandes has been a superb signing for Manchester United since arriving from Sporting CP, but football moves quickly and sentiment counts for little when results are poor and relationships sour. He has not looked quite like himself this season, and if the bond has truly gone, then a clean break may suit all sides.

For United, though, this would be a massive call. Losing a player of his quality in mid-season would leave a gaping hole, but it may also give the club a chance to start again properly. If Carrick goes, and Fernandes follows him out, it could mark the beginning of a full reset at Old Trafford.

That is the real issue here: do United want to keep building around a player whose heart may no longer be fully in it, or do they take the hard road and begin shaping a side for the long term? Big clubs are judged by the bold calls, and this one would certainly qualify.

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