Harry Maguire reveals what Bruno Fernandes told him after the Liverpool match that left him furious
What was meant to be a night of celebration for Manchester United after their dramatic 2–1 triumph over Liverpool at Anfield has instead spiraled into controversy and internal unrest. Reports emerging from Old Trafford suggest that tensions boiled over in the dressing room as Harry Maguire and Bruno Fernandes clashed moments after the final whistle — a confrontation that allegedly left Maguire furious and emotionally shaken.
According to sources, the argument started when Fernandes made a sarcastic comment about the captain’s armband, a long-standing sensitive topic between the two players. Maguire, who scored the winning goal, was said to be deeply offended, claiming that Fernandes’ words crossed the line. In frustration, he reportedly told teammates, “This isn’t the first time he’s said something like that. I’ve taken it up with the disciplinary board, and if he doesn’t want me here, I’ll leave.”
Witnesses say the incident began innocently enough, with Fernandes congratulating teammates before turning to Maguire. In what appeared to be a joke, he allegedly quipped, “Nice goal, skip — or should I say former skip?” The remark, however, didn’t sit well with Maguire, who has struggled to rebuild his confidence and reputation since being stripped of the captaincy last season by Erik ten Hag. Maguire reportedly fired back, reminding Fernandes that leadership comes from actions, not titles, before storming out of the room when Fernandes dismissed him with a smirk.
Insiders claim this isn’t the first sign of tension between the pair. Maguire, who has recently regained a place in Ruben Amorim’s starting lineup, is said to feel isolated by some figures within the squad despite his strong performances. Some within the club believe Fernandes hasn’t been entirely comfortable with Maguire’s resurgence and growing influence in the dressing room.
A club source reportedly told The Mirror Football that Maguire had “worked hard to earn respect again,” adding that “Fernandes might feel threatened by the attention Maguire is getting for his recent form.” The altercation, they said, only exposed the tension that’s been simmering for months.
Manager Ruben Amorim, who values strict discipline and unity, is now caught in the middle of the feud. The Portuguese coach, known for his no-nonsense approach, has already been informed of the dispute and intends to handle it quietly but firmly. Those close to the manager say he won’t tolerate ego clashes, and if necessary, will make a tough decision regarding the captaincy to restore harmony.
Fans were quick to react online, splitting into camps. While some defended Fernandes as a passionate leader, others accused him of arrogance and poor leadership. One supporter wrote, “Fernandes should be lifting Maguire up, not tearing him down. That goal saved us.” Another added, “Maguire’s showing character. Bruno needs to control his emotions — a true captain doesn’t mock his own teammate.”
Maguire has reportedly filed a formal complaint with the club’s disciplinary committee, detailing the confrontation and his concerns about ongoing disrespect. Although the club has not released an official statement, a spokesperson noted that “the manager will deal with all internal matters appropriately.”
The fallout now threatens to overshadow United’s victory and reignite doubts over Fernandes’ ability to lead. Despite his talent and consistency, questions about his temperament and leadership have resurfaced, especially after visible clashes with teammates and referees in past games.
Former defender Rio Ferdinand didn’t mince words, saying, “If Maguire’s version is true, then it’s unacceptable. A captain unites the squad, he doesn’t divide it — mocking a teammate who just scored the winner at Anfield is beyond disrespectful.” Gary Neville, however, urged restraint, noting that emotions can run high after intense matches and advising Amorim to address the issue swiftly to protect team unity.
What was supposed to be a night of triumph has now exposed deep cracks in Manchester United’s dressing room. If Maguire’s complaint is upheld, Fernandes could face serious disciplinary action — or even risk losing the captain’s armband. As one insider put it, “This could be the start of another power shift inside Old Trafford.”
Maguire reportedly told close friends, “I’ve always respected this club, but I won’t let anyone disrespect me or the badge I play for.” The coming days will determine whether this is simply a misunderstanding born of emotions — or the beginning of another storm within Manchester United’s fragile leadership structure.
