By Islam El-Sakka
Manchester United head coach Michael Carrick and captain Bruno Fernandes held private talks at the club's training ground on Tuesday aimed at resolving tensions that led to Fernandes being dropped for Sunday's 3-0 defeat at Bournemouth.
Fernandes dropped after criticism
The Portuguese midfielder, 32, was an unused substitute against Bournemouth after he publicly criticised Carrick's tactics following a 4-1 Champions League loss to Como. It remains unclear whether Fernandes apologised for his comments during the meeting.
Carrick retains role for Chelsea match
Despite widespread expectation that Carrick would be sacked after the Bournemouth loss, the board decided the 45-year-old deserves the chance to turn results around. United, currently 16th in the Premier League, travel to Chelsea on Saturday (12:30 GMT) with Carrick in charge and Fernandes potentially returning to the starting line-up.
Mainoo returns to training
Midfielder Kobbie Mainoo participated in training on Wednesday after a two-week absence due to injury, providing a boost ahead of the Stamford Bridge fixture.
Board backs Carrick but eyes replacements
Senior figures believe the squad — considered capable of Champions League qualification — is underperforming and that players must share responsibility. One player told BBC Sport: "The feeling is that we all want to put it right. Players, staff, everyone." Nevertheless, the club has shortlisted former Newcastle boss Eddie Howe and ex-Germany and Bayern Munich coach Julian Nagelsmann as potential successors. Appointing Howe would trigger a significant compensation payment to Newcastle, while Nagelsmann is a free agent.
