Tony Pulis blasts Bruno Fernandes as ‘totally unprofessional’ after Man Utd tactics row

Former Premier League manager Tony Pulis has criticised Bruno Fernandes for his comments about Michael Carrick’s tactics following Manchester United’s 4-1 defeat to Como in the Champions League.

According to the Manchester Evening News, Pulis believes the United captain’s remarks created another problem for Carrick, who is already under pressure after the disappointing result.

“Listening to the way his captain spoke, after his own example typified his team’s reluctance to do the above, it again showed me how difficult it must be at that club at the moment,” Pulis told BBC Sport.

He added: “I’ve always judged leaders by people who follow them when things are going wrong. Unfortunately, many members of that team did follow their captain’s example, but in a totally unprofessional way.”

Fernandes was subsequently dropped to the bench for United’s Premier League meeting with Bournemouth on Sunday, October 25. Carrick insisted the decision was tactical rather than disciplinary, saying: “Pure football, pure football reasons.” Pulis also questioned United’s attitude and commitment during their defeat in Italy.