What was expected to be a night of pure joy for Manchester United following their thrilling 2–1 victory over Liverpool at Anfield has quickly turned into a storm of controversy and internal discord.
Reports surfacing from Old Trafford indicate that a heated altercation broke out in the dressing room between Harry Maguire and Bruno Fernandes shortly after the match — a confrontation that reportedly left Maguire furious and visibly upset.
According to multiple sources close to the club, the argument erupted after Fernandes made what appeared to be a sarcastic comment about the captain’s armband, a topic that has long been a sore spot between the two players.
Maguire, who had just scored the dramatic winning goal, took offense, feeling that Fernandes’ remarks were disrespectful and unnecessary.
Witnesses claim Maguire snapped back, saying, “This isn’t the first time he’s done this. If he doesn’t want me here, I’ll go. I’ve already spoken to the disciplinary board.”
Insiders recount that the tension began subtly as Fernandes congratulated his teammates. When he turned to Maguire, he jokingly said, “Nice goal, skipper — or should I say former skipper?” What was meant to sound lighthearted, however, struck a nerve.
Maguire, who has been trying to rebuild his confidence and regain his place in the squad after being stripped of the captaincy last season, was deeply offended.
He reportedly fired back that “real leadership is shown through actions, not armbands” before storming out when Fernandes smirked in response.
Sources inside the club claim this confrontation had been brewing for some time. Maguire, who has recently regained form under Rúben Amorim, reportedly feels isolated by certain teammates.
Meanwhile, Fernandes is believed to be uneasy about Maguire’s resurgence and the growing admiration he’s been receiving from fans and staff alike.
One insider told The Mirror Football that “Maguire has worked tirelessly to earn back respect, and Fernandes may be feeling threatened by the renewed praise he’s getting.”
Manager Rúben Amorim, who is known for his strict disciplinary standards and emphasis on team unity, is said to be aware of the issue.
Close sources reveal that he intends to resolve it quietly but decisively, emphasizing that he won’t allow ego battles to disrupt the dressing room harmony. If necessary, Amorim may even reconsider the captaincy situation to restore balance within the team.
Fan reactions online have been polarized. Some defended Fernandes as a passionate leader who occasionally lets his emotions show, while others accused him of arrogance. One supporter wrote, “Bruno should be lifting Maguire up, not mocking him.
That goal won us the game.” Another added, “Maguire’s showing maturity and fight. Bruno needs to remember what leadership means.”
It has since been reported that Maguire has filed an official complaint with United’s disciplinary committee, outlining the incident and expressing concern about ongoing disrespect.
While the club hasn’t released an official statement, a spokesperson confirmed that “the manager is handling the matter internally.”
The fallout threatens to overshadow what should have been one of United’s proudest nights of the season. The tension also raises renewed questions about Fernandes’ leadership temperament, which has been scrutinized before for his emotional outbursts toward teammates and referees.
Former defender Rio Ferdinand criticized the alleged behavior, saying, “If Maguire’s account is true, it’s unacceptable. A captain unites the team — he doesn’t tear teammates down, especially after a win.”
Meanwhile, Gary Neville urged calm, suggesting that post-match emotions often boil over and that Amorim must act swiftly to keep the squad united.
What should have been a celebration of triumph has instead exposed cracks within United’s leadership. If Maguire’s complaint leads to disciplinary action, Fernandes could face serious consequences — possibly even the loss of the captain’s armband.
As one insider summed up, “This could mark another power shift inside Old Trafford.”
Maguire reportedly told friends, “I’ve always given my all for this club, but I won’t stand for disrespect — not to me, and not to the badge.”
Whether this turns out to be a misunderstanding or the spark of a deeper rift, one thing is clear: Manchester United’s fragile unity is once again under threat.
