“Stop hiding behind the manager” - Emmanuel Petit hits out at comments from Manchester United superstar during international break
Emmanuel Petit has hit out at Manchester United star Bruno Fernandes for his comments during the international break. The Arsenal legend claimed that the players need to do better to turn things around at Old Trafford and not hide behind the manager.
Speaking to Manchester Evening News, Petit stated that Manchester United's players are not doing enough at the club. He believes the players need to share responsibility for the poor start to the season.
"I'm not a huge fan of Ten Hag, especially his communication but as well the passion from him - I can't see it. So this is something I don't like from him. Is he the only one responsible for this situation? No, no, definitely not," Petit said. "I can see that players, some of them are so far away from their right level. The expectation as well, the ambition they have to show when you play at Man United. So a lot of people must share responsibility with Ten Hag."
The former Chelsea player added that the club should stick with Erik ten Hag as the manager.
"I think they should stick with Ten Hag, but I think players should understand that they have responsibility as well," he said. "So if you follow what Fernandes said with Portugal during the press conference, he said the environment [at Portugal] is completely different. I can understand why things are not good at Manchester United because of the environment on and off the pitch. But I would say: Yes, but you are players. You can change this on the pitch. That's your responsibility all together. So stop hiding behind the manager. Take responsibility on the pitch."
The Red Devils have won just two of their seven Premier League matches this season. They have also drawn both their matches in the Europa League.
What did Bruno Fernandes say about Manchester United?
Bruno Fernandes, who is currently with the Portugal national team, took a not-so-subtle dig at his club side Manchester United. The midfielder stated that he felt comfortable in the national setup and enjoyed his football more given the higher quality around him. Fernandes said (via SPORTbible):
"I've felt very at ease, the dynamics are good. I have demonstrated a good level in the national team. It's a space where I feel good, and I feel like I can enjoy my football at a very high level, due to the dynamics we have and the quality I have at my side."
Manchester United have decided to stick with Erik ten Hag for now amid vociferous calls for his sacking from the fans. The Red Devils have been heavily linked with Thomas Tuchel, who is also said to be in talks for the England job.