Former Manchester United midfielder, Paul Scholes, has urged club captain Bruno Fernandes to leave European football for Saudi Arabia following his criticism of head coach Michael Carrick.
Fernandes questioned Carrick’s tactics after Manchester United suffered a 4-1 defeat to Como in the Champions League last week.
The Portuguese midfielder was subsequently left on the bench during Sunday’s Premier League match against Bournemouth, fuelling speculation about his future at Old Trafford.
However, reports indicate that Carrick and Fernandes have held talks to resolve their differences ahead of Saturday’s Premier League clash against Chelsea.
The discussions are believed to have been open and frank, with both parties reportedly keen to help United turn their season around.
Scholes, however, was unimpressed by Fernandes’ comments and questioned whether the midfielder could be trusted to captain a team again.
“What Bruno Fernandes said last week, I think that’s unforgivable. How can Bruno Fernandes be trusted to be captain of any team he ever goes to now? I think he probably needs to get away from European football and just go to Saudi, just get out the way,” Scholes said on The Good, The Bad and The Football podcast.
“I don’t think any manager, any member of staff can trust him after that.”
Former United midfielder Nicky Butt also criticised Fernandes, arguing that the captain had damaged his reputation with the interview despite his contributions to the club.
“We sing his praises for his abilities. He’s been the only player for the last 12, 13 years that’s gone, ‘I know what it means to play for this football club and I’m good enough to play football and I’m going to carry it on my shoulders and I’m going to lead it. I’m going to score goals. I’m going to create. I’m not leaving. I’m staying. I’m fighting the fight.’ And he’s killed himself in one interview. Stupid.”
Fernandes is expected to return to United’s starting line-up against Chelsea after his reported discussions with Carrick.
However, questions remain over his long-term future, with his current contract scheduled to expire next summer.
Manchester United have the option to extend the 32-year-old’s deal by another year, which would keep him at the club until the end of the 2027/28 campaign.
Saudi Pro League clubs have reportedly maintained an interest in the Portugal international over the past two years, and several teams are expected to consider moves for him next year.
Fernandes has recorded four goals and one assist in 11 appearances for United across competitions during the 2026/27 season.
