The Portuguese midfielder has featured in almost every match since arriving at Old Trafford from Sporting CP six years ago, with only a few exceptions.
Since completing that transfer, Fernandes has accumulated 27,863 minutes of action for the club. Across Europe’s leading five divisions, only a limited number of players, including several goalkeepers, have logged more playing time during this span.
The player has maintained exceptional consistency, though he approaches his 32nd birthday next month and will struggle to maintain such demanding levels without careful management of his workload from Carrick.
Fernandes would give everything for the club, yet the organisation aims to extract his best contributions over an extended period. This strategy means he will require rest during certain fixtures throughout the coming season.
Following the victory over Brighton in the final match of the previous campaign, Carrick humorously recalled how Fernandes had requested to remain on the pitch for the full duration. Despite having already broken the assist record, the player sought additional involvement.
The former Sporting Lisbon man is entirely devoted to the game, frequently watching academy fixtures from the team hotel during away matches. His desire to stay on the field is unwavering, but Carrick will need to remove that choice from his hands next term.
Carrick stated at Thursday’s press conference that Fernandes has been instrumental to both the team and club in recent times, delivering significant impact, and will continue to do so. Regarding upcoming fixtures, Carrick expressed hope the player remains fit and in good condition, while also emphasising the importance of squad depth, managing the season’s rhythm, keeping players performing well, and ensuring they remain fresh. Fernandes is part of this approach, Carrick noted, acknowledging his importance and captaincy while identifying areas where he needs protection.
The dilemma facing Carrick is that Fernandes represents his most impactful performer, occupying the position that links the entire team together, in the manager’s own assessment.
Carrick suggested that while both penalty areas carry importance, the centre of the pitch unifies the squad and heavily influences performance both with and without possession. He believes it provides the team’s foundation, which is crucial for consistency throughout individual matches and across longer periods. A solid central base and balance are necessary, and examination of elite teams throughout history reveals their core was always robust. The club is mindful of this and believes their current foundation is strong, though they continue developing through coaching and player development.
Although Fernandes would resist being rested, Carrick must guide him toward the broader perspective. The club has leant heavily on Fernandes since his arrival, but Carrick must discover methods to secure victories without him on the pitch.
A positive development is that the Manchester outfit’s midfield should appear more formidable than it has in several years should Carlos Baleba be secured. The club has recruited quality in that area, reducing the burden currently resting on Fernandes.