Manchester United legend Paul Scholes has urged Bruno Fernandes to consider leaving European football following the Portuguese midfielder’s public criticism of manager Michael Carrick after the club’s heavy defeat to Como.

Fernandes has faced growing scrutiny since United suffered a disappointing 4-1 loss to the Italian side in the Champions League last week. The club captain reportedly expressed frustration with Carrick and his coaching staff over their tactical approach, particularly the decision not to assign individual pressing responsibilities against Como’s players.

Scholes has strongly criticised Fernandes for discussing the team’s tactics publicly, arguing that his remarks could undermine the trust between the captain, the manager and other members of the squad. The former United midfielder believes the controversy has raised serious questions about Fernandes’ suitability to lead a team, especially at a club where unity and confidence are essential.

Speaking about the situation, Scholes delivered a blunt assessment of the midfielder’s conduct and suggested that a move away from European football could be the best option for him.

"What Bruno Fernandes said last week, I think that’s unforgivable. How can Bruno Fernandes be trusted to be captain of any team he ever goes to now? I think he probably needs to get away from European football and just go to Saudi, just get out the way. I don’t think any manager, any member of staff can trust him after that," Scholes said.

The comments represent a significant criticism of a player who has played an important role at Manchester United since arriving at the club. Fernandes has regularly contributed goals and assists while serving as captain, making him one of the team’s most influential figures on the pitch.

However, his latest remarks have created an additional challenge for Carrick, who is already under pressure to improve United’s performances. The club’s inconsistent results have intensified scrutiny of the manager’s decisions, while the disagreement over tactics has introduced another source of tension at Old Trafford.

The defeat against Como exposed concerns about United’s organisation and ability to compete effectively against their opponents. Fernandes’ reported dissatisfaction with the tactical instructions has now become a major talking point, particularly because of his position as captain and the responsibility that comes with leading the squad.

Scholes’ reaction has also shifted attention towards Fernandes’ future and the level of confidence that managers might place in him following the controversy. Nevertheless, his comments represent the former midfielder’s personal assessment, and there has been no confirmed indication that Manchester United intend to sell their captain or that another club has made an approach.

It also remains unclear whether Fernandes will face disciplinary action from the club or whether Carrick will publicly address the disagreement. United have yet to establish how the situation will be handled internally, leaving questions over whether the controversy will have any lasting effect on the relationship between the captain and the coaching staff.

For Fernandes, the immediate priority will be helping United recover from their disappointing result and return to winning ways. With pressure mounting on both the team and its manager, his performances and conduct in the coming matches could prove important as the club attempts to restore stability.

Scholes’ remarks have added to the debate surrounding Fernandes’ leadership, but the midfielder’s long-term position at Old Trafford remains uncertain as United seek a response to their recent struggles.