Former Manchester United forward Wayne Rooney admitted he was stunned by the display against Como and said he had not felt this concerned about the situation at Old Trafford for a long time.
Although Carrick is a close friend of the former England and United captain, Rooney understands why the manager is being questioned. However, following the controversial remarks made by Martinez and Fernandes, he also accused the players of acting selfishly and immaturely.
Speaking on the United Stand podcast, Rooney said Martinez’s comments were a major problem because they risked dividing the dressing room. He believes Fernandes’ remarks may encourage more players to follow suit as they try to avoid accepting responsibility.
Rooney said that regardless of whether Fernandes’ comments were justified, the players must accept accountability for their performances on the field and do so collectively.
He accused the squad of putting personal interests ahead of their team-mates, manager, staff and supporters. In his view, they react immaturely when circumstances do not suit them and attempt to shift the blame rather than acknowledge their own shortcomings.
Fernandes has suffered a significant decline in form compared with last season, when he won the PFA and FWA Player of the Year awards and set a Premier League record for assists in one campaign.
Rooney added that Fernandes appeared to be placing pressure on others instead of confronting his own difficulties.
He argued that Fernandes, Martinez and the rest of the squad should honestly assess their own performances, accept that their current standards are insufficient and show greater commitment.
Rooney also urged Manchester United’s board to clearly explain its plans for Carrick, who he believes must respond assertively to the mounting pressure.
Despite widespread speculation that he could soon be dismissed after United’s poorest sequence of results since the 2015-16 season, Carrick is expected to remain in charge for Sunday’s home match against Bournemouth.
Drawing on his managerial experiences at Plymouth and Birmingham City, Rooney said that if he were in Carrick’s position, he would now take a much stronger and more defiant approach.
Rooney said Carrick could no longer afford to be overly accommodating. While a manager sometimes needs to shield his squad, he must also defend his own position because poor performances from the players could ultimately cost him his job.
What do you feel about this post?
Like
Love
Happy
Haha
Sad
