Last Updated:
Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim praised captain Bruno Fernandes after his two goals in a 2-1 pre-season win over West Ham, highlighting his importance to the team.
Manchester United’s Bruno Fernandes (X)
Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim lavished praise on captain Bruno Fernandes after the Portuguese midfielder netted twice in a 2-1 pre-season victory over West Ham United.
Fernandes, 30, enjoyed a stellar 2023–24 campaign, tallying 19 goals and 19 assists across 57 appearances in all competitions. His outstanding contributions earned him United’s Player of the Year award.
Despite rumors linking him with a big-money move to Saudi Pro League side Al Hilal earlier this year, Fernandes confirmed last month that he had considered the offer but ultimately decided to stay, choosing to continue playing at the highest level.
“He Is Our Leader” — Amorim
Speaking to reporters after the win, Amorim underlined Fernandes’ value to the squad.
“It was so clear last season—you can see it with the goals and assists. But it’s not just that,” he said.
“I think now he has more players, I feel, to help him lead the group, and that is a good thing. He is our leader and really important, not just on the field but off the field. He leads by example.”
However, Amorim acknowledged that Fernandes’ passion can sometimes get the better of him.
“Sometimes, the problem is he gets frustrated and loses a little bit of focus on his job,” Amorim noted. “He wants to help the teammates so much that it’s not always the best thing to do. They have to do their job, and Bruno has, for example, to wait for the ball.”
So far in the summer transfer window, United have bolstered their attacking options with the additions of Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo. Amorim expressed optimism that the new signings would ease the creative burden on Fernandes.
“Last year, I felt sometimes I pushed him back to have more possession in the build-up, and we missed Bruno near the box,” he explained.
“With different characteristics from Bryan (Mbeumo) and Matheus Cunha—and I really like Kobbie Mainoo’s game—he (Fernandes) will have more help this season.”
(with Reuters inputs)
After training in the field of broadcast media, Siddarth, as a sub-editor for News18 Sports, currently dabbles in putting together stories, from across a plethora of sports, onto a digital canvas. His long-term…Read More
After training in the field of broadcast media, Siddarth, as a sub-editor for News18 Sports, currently dabbles in putting together stories, from across a plethora of sports, onto a digital canvas. His long-term… Read More
view comments
- First Published:
