Not Keane - Manchester United Legend Fires Petty Shot at Bruno Fernandes on Social Media

Keane Posts Sly Dig at Manchester United Star

Roy Keane appears to have reignited his long-running criticism of Bruno Fernandes after posting a cryptic message on social media shortly after the Manchester United captain accused him of “lying” in a recent interview.

The former United midfielder shared a quote on Instagram reading: “Too much attention makes a donkey think he’s a lion,” and fans were quick to assume the post was aimed directly at Fernandes given the timing.

Roy Keane on Instagram: pic.twitter.com/v8dZ1reD4b

— utdreport (@utdreport) May 25, 2026

Although Keane did not mention the Portuguese midfielder by name, supporters immediately connected the dots after Fernandes publicly responded to criticism Keane has aimed at him throughout the season.

The latest fallout stems from Fernandes’ appearance on The Diary of a CEO podcast, where he addressed comments made by Keane regarding his performances and recent assist record. Fernandes admitted he was frustrated by suggestions that he cares more about personal achievements than the success of the team, insisting his words had been twisted.

The United captain explained that he was proud to break the Premier League single-season assist record, but felt Keane unfairly criticised him for speaking about it publicly. Fernandes claimed the former United captain “lied” about what he had actually said and insisted he has never placed himself above the club.

Fernandes also revealed he attempted to resolve the situation privately rather than through the media. According to the midfielder, he contacted former United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer in the hope of speaking to Keane directly and clearing up the misunderstanding.

Fernandes made it clear that despite the criticism, he still respects Keane enormously because of his achievements at Old Trafford and his legendary status at the club. However, it now appears there has been little progress between the pair, with Keane’s latest Instagram post only intensifying speculation surrounding their relationship.

Bruno Fernandes responds to Roy Keane twisting his words:

“What I don't like is when people lie about things, and in this case, what you said about Roy Keane, basically, what he said is a lie.” [@StevenBartlett] pic.twitter.com/whNXikA7OQ

— utdreport (@utdreport) May 25, 2026

Keane has consistently questioned Fernandes’ leadership qualities over the past few years and has frequently singled him out during television appearances. The Irishman has often criticised Fernandes’ body language during matches, accusing him of showing frustration too easily and failing to inspire teammates during difficult moments.

Earlier this season, Keane even suggested Fernandes was not the right man to captain Manchester United, arguing that his behaviour on the pitch sends the wrong message. Those comments sparked major debate among supporters, with some agreeing that Fernandes can be too emotional during games, while others defended him as one of the few players consistently performing in a struggling side.

Despite the criticism, Fernandes has once again been one of Manchester United’s standout performers this season. The Portugal international ended the campaign with impressive numbers and played a major role creatively, breaking the Premier League assist record in the process. That form has led many fans to defend him against Keane’s criticism, arguing that without Fernandes the team’s performances and results would have been even worse.

BRUNO FERNANDES. RECORD-BREAKER. pic.twitter.com/jWBSwmUU4O

— Manchester United (@ManUtd) May 24, 2026

Some fans believe Keane’s latest post was an obvious dig at Fernandes and proof that the former midfielder is still unhappy with the comments made during the podcast interview. Others argue that supporters may be reading too much into a vague motivational quote and that Keane never directly referenced Fernandes at all. Either way, the timing of the post ensured it immediately became linked to the ongoing feud between the two United captains from different generations.

Keane has built a reputation as one of football’s harshest pundits since retiring from the game, particularly when discussing Manchester United. The former midfielder rarely softens his opinions and has often claimed modern footballers are treated too gently compared to players from his era.

Fernandes, meanwhile, has become one of the most divisive figures among the United fanbase. While his numbers and creativity are undeniable, critics continue to question whether his personality and leadership style are suited to captaining one of the biggest clubs in the world. Keane’s latest social media activity has only added more fuel to that debate, and judging by the reaction online, the disagreement between the pair is far from over.