Manchester United captain Michael Carrick has voiced his belief that the club can successfully retain the services of key midfielder Bruno Fernandes, following the Portuguese international's record-breaking performance. Fernandes provided his 21st assist of the Premier League season during Sunday's victory over Brighton, surpassing the previous record for assists in a single campaign.
The 29-year-old playmaker has been a central figure for the Red Devils since his arrival from Sporting Lisbon in January 2020. His consistent goal contributions and creative output have made him indispensable to the team, leading to speculation regarding his long-term future at Old Trafford amidst interest from other European clubs. However, Carrick, a former United midfielder himself, remains optimistic about the club's position.
Fernandes' current contract with Manchester United is set to expire in the summer of 2026, with the club holding an option to extend it for an additional year. This contractual security provides United with a strong negotiating position, should any formal bids materialise for their star player. His record-breaking assist tally underscores his continued importance and value to the squad.
The win against Brighton saw United secure a crucial three points, with Fernandes' assist contributing to a positive performance. His ability to create chances and dictate play from midfield has been a consistent highlight, making him a fan favourite and a vital component of manager Erik ten Hag's tactical plans. The club's hierarchy will be keen to ensure stability and continuity, particularly with such a high-performing asset.
Carrick's confidence reflects the club's desire to build a competitive squad around core players like Fernandes. Retaining top talent is often seen as a cornerstone of successful long-term strategies in modern football, and Fernandes undoubtedly falls into that category given his consistent impact on the Premier League stage.
Source: UKPulse Media reporting from Manchester United club statements.