According to reports by GOAL on Thursday November 5, 2026, Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has pointed to factors outside the dressing room as part of the reasons behind the club's disappointing Premier League form this season.

The Portuguese midfielder made the comments after United ended their nine-match winless run across all competitions with a dramatic 3-2 Champions League victory over Roma on Tuesday.

Despite the important European result, Manchester United remain 17th in the Premier League table, with their position just above the relegation zone highlighting the difficult campaign they have experienced.

Speaking after the Roma match during an interview with TNT Sports Brazil, Fernandes explained that confidence has been affected by the pressure surrounding the club and the disappointment of failing to meet expectations.

“It's a question of confidence,” the midfielder said.

He also suggested that circumstances beyond the players and coaching staff have made it more difficult for the team to produce the performances expected of them.

“There are a lot of factors outside the dressing room, outside of the players and the backroom staff, which make the performances of the club and what we can do on the pitch more difficult,” Fernandes explained.

The United captain added that players respond differently to the pressure, with some handling the situation better than others.

He admitted that the frustration of not delivering the results expected at a club of Manchester United's stature has affected the squad.

Fernandes also made it clear that the club's problems did not begin this season, describing the disappointing results and lack of success as an issue that has continued for several years.

“When the situation is like this, there isn't just one problem. There is more than one. There are a lot of things to improve, to do in a different way,” he said.

The midfielder further acknowledged that Manchester United have not enjoyed the level of success expected since he joined the club.

Meanwhile, Fernandes addressed speculation about his relationship with manager Michael Carrick following reports of disagreements between them.

The Portuguese international dismissed claims that they had held a clear-the-air meeting, insisting that several stories about their relationship were inaccurate.

He also acknowledged that the club and players needed the victory over Roma after working together to improve their situation.