As Manchester United plunge into yet another managerial search following the shock sacking of Ruben Amorim on January 5, 2026, captain Bruno Fernandes has ignited wild speculation with a subtle but telling social media interaction that fans have pounced on as a “clear hint” about the club’s next boss.
Just hours after the official announcement that Amorim had “departed” after 14 months – triggered by his explosive post-Leeds press conference where he demanded to be the “manager, not coach” and called out the hierarchy – Fernandes liked an Instagram post from none other than Enzo Maresca.
The post in question? A simple throwback image from Maresca’s time at Manchester City, captioned with a reflective quote about “building something special.” But in the context of Maresca’s own recent exit from Chelsea on New Year’s Day amid reported boardroom tensions, the timing of Fernandes’ like sent United supporters into meltdown.
On X, the reaction was immediate and explosive:
• “Bruno liking Maresca’s post? That’s no coincidence. He’s basically endorsing him as next manager 🔥 #MUFC” – Viral tweet with over 50k likes.
• “Captain Bruno dropping hints already? Maresca to United incoming?? This would be massive” – Fan account post trending worldwide.
• “If Bruno Fernandes is liking Enzo Maresca posts right after Amorim’s sacking… read the room, INEOS. Appoint him!” – Another with thousands of retweets.
The like, quickly screenshotted and circulated, has fueled growing confidence inside and outside the club that Maresca – fresh off guiding Chelsea to the Conference League and Club World Cup triumphs despite domestic inconsistencies – is the frontrunner. Sources close to Old Trafford whisper that INEOS and Sir Jim Ratcliffe admire Maresca’s Pep Guardiola-inspired philosophy, tactical acumen, and ability to develop young talent, seeing him as a perfect fit for United’s restructuring.
Maresca, 45, is currently the odds-on favorite with bookmakers (as short as 1/2 in some markets), ahead of Crystal Palace’s Oliver Glasner (who led the Eagles to FA Cup glory last season) and others like Mauricio Pochettino, Unai Emery, and Gareth Southgate. His availability – no compensation needed after mutually parting with Chelsea – makes a swift appointment feasible, with interim boss Darren Fletcher (the former midfield stalwart) set to handle upcoming fixtures against Burnley and Brighton.
Fernandes, United’s talismanic skipper and creative heartbeat, has long been vocal about wanting a manager who maximizes attacking potential. Under Amorim’s rigid 3-4-3, the Portuguese star thrived at times but often appeared frustrated by limited transitions. Maresca’s possession-dominant, fluid style – reminiscent of the football Bruno excelled in during his early United days – could unlock him further, especially alongside talents like Amad Diallo, Bryan Mbeumo, and emerging youngsters.
This isn’t the first time Fernandes has used social media to hint at preferences; his past interactions have often preceded club moves. Fans interpret this as leadership: the 31-year-old, contracted until 2027, signaling his vision for the post-Amorim era.
Inside the club, there’s reportedly “growing confidence” in landing Maresca, with talks already underway. Ratcliffe’s regime, keen to avoid another “hipster” experiment after Amorim’s fallout over transfers and tactics, views the Italian as a safe yet progressive choice – proven in England, trophy-winning, and aligned with modern football.
Darren Fletcher takes charge for Wednesday’s trip to Burnley, but all eyes are on the permanent role. If Fernandes’ hint holds weight, Enzo Maresca could be unveiled sooner than expected, offering a tantalizing reunion of sorts: two Portuguese-speaking visionaries ready to rebuild United’s attack around their captain.
The speculation mode is full throttle – and Bruno’s like just poured fuel on the fire. Watch this space.
