Michael Carrick has implemented significant changes at Manchester United, not only on the pitch but also in how players manage their downtime. After taking over as interim manager, Carrick has relaxed the restrictions on player holidays that were enforced by his predecessor, Ruben Amorim. This shift has allowed players like Bruno Fernandes and Senne Lammens to take advantage of their time off, particularly during a lengthy break from competitive fixtures.
Since Carrick’s appointment, the team has experienced a successful run, winning each of his first four matches. However, their winning streak was halted by a loss to West Ham, marking a temporary setback in his early tenure. With an early exit from the FA Cup, Manchester United now has a 13-day gap before their next match, scheduled for February 23, 2024, against Everton at Hill Dickinson Stadium.
In this context, both Fernandes and Lammens have opted to travel abroad during their time off. Lammens returned to his former club, Royal Antwerp, where the club shared a photo of the 23-year-old goalkeeper enjoying the snowy weather. Lammens made his professional debut with Club Brugge and later helped Antwerp finish fifth in the league last season before joining United for £18.2 million. Unfortunately, he could not witness a victory, as Antwerp suffered a defeat, losing 2-0 against Westerlo, which left them sitting in 11th place after 25 matches.
Meanwhile, Fernandes took a different route, traveling to Portugal to support his friend Francisco Ramos, a midfielder for Pacos de Ferreira. The match, which saw Pacos draw 0-0 against Torreense, was crucial for the team as it fights to avoid relegation. Reports from Portugal indicate that Fernandes’s visit was a chance to reconnect with Ramos, a former teammate from the Under-21 national squad. In a reflection of their friendship, Ramos expressed his gratitude, stating, “It’s always special. He’s someone close to me and my family. Furthermore, it’s always special to have a figure like him from our football watching us.”
As Carrick continues to shape the culture at Manchester United, his approach to player management may foster a more relaxed and productive environment. By allowing players the freedom to spend their time as they see fit, Carrick is likely to enhance team morale, which could translate into improved performances on the pitch.
