Hargreaves: Manchester United players' rebellion wouldn't have happened under Ferguson

Owen Hargreaves, the former Manchester United player, believes that Sir Alex Ferguson would not have allowed the current crisis within the team, asserting that Bruno Fernandes would have faced severe consequences had he made the same comments criticizing the tactical approach of coach Michael Carrick.

Owen Hargreaves, in comments reported by the British newspaper "Daily Mirror", stated that Fernandes might have lost his place in the team if this had occurred during the Ferguson era, noting that the Manchester United captain would have avoided these comments altogether if he had understood the potential consequences.

Hargreaves said: "Honestly, I would never blame my manager. First of all, you wouldn't say something like that in Sir Alex's time, because you wouldn't play for the club again. Secondly, you have to look at yourself first."

He added: "There is not a single Manchester United fan who believes the team should compete for the Premier League title. But the best you can do is give your all in every match, every time you step onto the pitch."

Fernández criticized some tactical aspects following Manchester United's loss to Como in the Champions League last Wednesday, saying: "It's a decision from the coaching staff not to press man-to-man, leaving spaces behind us at times, and trying to regain the ball."

When asked if Carrick misjudged his plan, the team captain replied: "That is up to the coach and the technical staff to assess, not me."

Michael Carrick emphasized the importance of maintaining team unity, stating during the press conference before the match against AFC Bournemouth: "The most important thing for me is the team first and foremost, then the group and the relationships within it. It's about the club, and I will always do what I see as best for the benefit of Manchester United."

Michael Carrick has denied any division within the dressing room, stating: "There is no division, no. There is no division. We just have to get back to doing what we do best, and we will do that."

The coach has refused to decide on the possibility of stripping Fernandes of the captaincy, simply stating: "I will only say that whatever the situation, I will always do what is best for the club."

According to the newspaper, Fernandes retains the captaincy of Manchester United and is expected to participate against Bournemouth on Sunday at Old Trafford, despite the controversy raised by his recent statements.