Fernandes: We Had Momentum Before Amorim's Exit, Now We Must Sustain It

Bruno Fernandes remains convinced that Manchester United had struck upon something worthwhile during Ruben Amorim's brief tenure, even as the Portuguese tactician's departure in early January has given way to a remarkable turnaround under Michael Carrick.

The Red Devils' captain acknowledges the awkward reality of managerial upheaval—a mid-season switch that saw Amorim depart after struggling to reverse the club's fortunes following a dismal 15th-place finish last term. Yet Fernandes insists the foundations were being laid before the plug was pulled.

"We were building something under Ruben Amorim and all of a sudden the club decided we need to change," Fernandes told The Times. "Then with Michael Carrick we have this last spell where we've been great until now, with the opportunity of the Champions League next season."

Carrick's impact has been undeniable. His ten-match run has yielded seven victories, two draws, and a single defeat, propelling United to third in the Premier League standings. With seven matches remaining and a seven-point cushion over sixth-placed Chelsea, the interim boss has breathed new life into a campaign that appeared moribund mere weeks ago. The recent confirmation that fifth place will also secure Champions League football this season has further brightened the picture.

Yet Fernandes knows that short-term sparkle must translate into something more durable. "Anyone can be good in spells," he reflected. "Being good in the whole season is much more difficult. That's something we haven't done since I'm here. We need that consistency."

For a squad that has repeatedly stumbled over the finish line, the message is clear: finish strong, then prove capable of doing it all over again next term.

Harry Maguire, meanwhile, has offered a charitable assessment of Amorim's ill-fated stint. The centre-back praised the manager's tactical acumen and credited him with building "a good, solid squad," whilst acknowledging that the Portuguese coach's ideas simply failed to translate on the pitch.

"I think us as players have got to take a lot of responsibility for that as well," Maguire said. "I do believe he deserves a lot of credit for the direction he led the club in. I'm sure he'll go on to great things in management."