Manchester United head coach Michael Carrick aims to maximize the contributions of skipper Bruno Fernandes as the midfielder enters the final year of his contract. Although United holds an option to extend his deal by another year, uncertainties remain as Fernandes also carries a £57 million release clause. This clause has attracted interest from prominent Italian clubs Juventus and AC Milan, as well as Turkish side Galatasaray, which are contemplating activating it.

While Carrick hopes to see Fernandes continue at Old Trafford, discussions regarding a new contract have yet to progress. During a press conference in Maynooth on Thursday afternoon, Carrick chose not to address the ongoing contract situation directly.

Nevertheless, Carrick emphasizes the significance of Fernandes within the squad for the current season. “Listen, we want top players,” he stated. “Every good team has players that have made a major impact. That’s how it is. Bruno has had that for a period of time here. We want to keep pushing and want to get the best out of Bruno and the team around him.”

Beyond his on-field performances, Fernandes plays a vital role off the pitch by mentoring younger players and providing them with valuable guidance. “He’s been so positive since I came back,” Carrick noted. “As much as the performances, it’s how he has been around the group, how he leads and takes time to help others, especially the younger players. That comes into play. He’s in a really good place and looking forward to the season.”

Manchester United head coach Michael Carrick wants to keep getting the best out of skipper Bruno Fernandes.

The 31-year-old has entered the final year of his contract, although United do have the option to extend it by another year.

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However, he also has a £57m release clause and Italian giants Juventus and AC Milan, plus Turkish outfit Galatasaray are considering whether to trigger it.

Ideally, Fernandes would stay at Old Trafford but so far there has been no progress on a new deal.

Carrick opted against talking about the situation in Maynooth on Thursday afternoon.

However, he clearly feels Fernandes has a major part to play for him this season.

“Listen, we want top players,” he said.

“Every good team has players that have made a major impact. That’s how it is.

“Bruno has had that for a period of time here. We want to keep pushing and want to get the best out of Bruno and the team around him.”

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It is not just Fernandes’ performances on the pitch that make him such an important member of the Manchester United set-up.

He is also influential off the pitch, taking time to talk with younger players and offer guidance when needed.

“He’s been so positive since I came back,” said Carrick.

“As much as the performances, it’s how he has been around the group, how he leads and takes time to help others, especially the younger players. That comes into play.

“He’s in a really good place and looking forward to the season.”