The Manchester United captain made the comments in an interview with Sky Italia after the club’s 4-1 Champions League defeat by Como, a result that extended their winless run to seven matches and increased scrutiny of head coach Michael Carrick.
Fernandes started the match but was substituted during the second half, appearing frustrated as he made his way to the bench. He had already criticised aspects of United’s approach after the defeat, and his latest remarks focused on the wider problems facing the club.
“Everyone at the club needs to understand that things are no longer the same; we are no longer in the past, and we must look to the future,” Fernandes told Sky Italia.
“We need to create something different in the present. At this club, there is too much focus on what was achieved in the past, but that is no longer who we are.
“Both the club and the players need to grasp this. Unfortunately for us—especially regarding the players—those who arrive expect to win trophies, win matches, and reach the highest level, but, sadly, that has proven very difficult at this club in recent years. That is the situation.”
United’s struggles since Sir Alex Ferguson retired in 2013 have been a recurring source of debate. Ferguson won 13 league titles during his 27-year spell in charge, but the club have not won the Premier League since his departure.
Fernandes believes the challenge now is to create a successful present rather than rely on that history. He acknowledged that the current run of results has fallen well short of the standards expected by the players themselves.
“It’s a very difficult time for us; we aren’t getting the points or the results we want. Most importantly, we aren’t delivering the level of performance we expect from ourselves,” he said.
“Unfortunately, it’s one of those spells that we just can’t seem to break out of. We need to do something to change this situation and start winning—it’s crucial.”
Carrick’s position has come under increasing pressure following the defeat, with reports suggesting United are assessing possible replacements. Whether he remains in charge for the next league fixture against Bournemouth is uncertain.
Fernandes’ comments point to a problem that extends beyond the head coach. His message is that United cannot recover by invoking former glories alone: they need better performances, results and a new identity in the present.