‘That’s a shock. It really is’: Commentators react to bold Carrick decision that results in a ‘shake of the head’

Michael Carrick has decided to withdraw Bruno Fernandes from the action against Como in the 66th minute.

Despite Manchester United trailing by three goals at the time of his departure, Carrick replaced his skipper with Joshua Zirkzee.

Fernandes hooked prematurely in Como clash

"That's a shock. It really is," reacted Glenn Hoddle on TNT Sports , to which main commentator Adam Summerton noted that Fernandes responded with a 'shake of the head' when making his way to the bench.

The Portugal star played 80 minutes in last week's defeat to Atletico Madrid, but other than that one outing, he has stayed on for the full 90 in every game he's started, so you can understand him being taken aback by the change.

Yet, Carrick did openly forewarn his players that game time was not by any means guaranteed if they were not performing at the level required, which Fernandes hasn't been as of late.

"This is not on Bruno, this line, but nobody is guaranteed a place in the team. Don't take that as me talking on Bruno, just in general. There's a level of performance, behaviour, understanding we need as a squad to perform.

"All the boys know that, they understand that, they've got their own standards and want to be at their best. That's pretty clear," said the manager last week.

How Fernandes has been faring as of late

Meanwhile, the 32-year-old is without a goal contribution in his last seven appearances in all competitions, including tonight.

Fans and pundits have pointed out that Fernandes is cutting a much more frustrated figure than usual, having seemingly grown accustomed to such lacklustre, repetitive results at the club.

Reports have suggested that he will be looking to move on in 2027, with his contract due to expire next June – though United have the option of extending his stay by an additional 12 months.

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