16 October 2026 5:26 pm WAT
Bruno Fernandes
Former Manchester United defender Paul Parker has urged head coach Michael Carrick to drop captain Bruno Fernandes from the starting lineup for the club’s upcoming match against Leeds United.
Manchester United are enduring a difficult spell, having failed to record a victory in their last five matches.
The Red Devils squandered their advantage to draw against Tottenham Hotspur, who had a player sent off, before suffering a defeat to Atletico Madrid in their most recent UEFA Champions League outing.
Fernandes has faced considerable criticism during this period.
Following his hat-trick and assist in Manchester United’s 5-2 victory over Ipswich Town, the Portuguese midfielder has been unable to register any goal contributions in subsequent fixtures.
Former Manchester United player, Parker has recommended that Carrick exclude Fernandes from the upcoming Leeds encounter.
He said, as quoted by Metro UK, “They lack a leader; Fernandes simply does not contribute sufficiently, and he has endured a disappointing campaign.
He has not delivered when required, and this deficiency is now adversely affecting United’s performance. I believe a resolute manager, one determined to establish his authority and demonstrate courage, would make this difficult decision.”
Parker further noted that Fernandes’ on-pitch conduct proves counterproductive to the team’s objectives:
“He [Fernandes] becomes frustrated excessively and directs this frustration toward his teammates. Currently, the team requires complete unity and cohesion. Consequently, I would drop Fernandes and instead deploy players with greater physical presence and energy on the pitch.”
The Red Devils presently occupy 13th position in the Premier League standings, having secured only one victory from their six league matches to date.
They will journey to Elland Road to confront their fierce rivals Leeds United on Sunday, October 18th.
Breaking news & top stories
Stay connected with The Sun Newspaper
Get breaking news, exclusive stories, and live updates delivered straight to your phone. Join thousands of readers already following us on Whatsapp Channel and Telegram.