Bruno Fernandes’s Impact at Manchester United
EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. — Coach Ruben Amorim highlighted the significance of Bruno Fernandes’s decision to remain with Manchester United this summer, particularly after his impactful performance in a 2-1 victory over West Ham during their preseason tour in the United States. Fernandes found the back of the net twice, converting a penalty and scoring a stunning long-range goal, exemplifying his vital role within the squad at MetLife Stadium.
Decision to Stay
The 30-year-old midfielder was initially considering a lucrative transfer to Saudi Arabian club Al Hilal earlier in June, but ultimately opted to stay put at Old Trafford, a choice Amorim insists was crucial for the team’s aspirations this season.
“It was evident last season how important he was,” remarked Amorim. “His contributions in terms of assists and goals speak for themselves, but he’s also a pivotal figure in leadership, both on the pitch and in the locker room.”
Tactical Adjustments
In the previous season, Fernandes often operated as a deep midfielder in Amorim’s 3-4-3 tactical setup. However, against West Ham, Amorim employed Kobbie Mainoo and Manuel Ugarte, allowing Fernandes to take up one of the attacking midfield roles alongside new recruit Matheus Cunha.
“You can’t cover every position effectively,” Amorim noted. “Last year, I sometimes had to deploy him deeper for greater ball possession, which meant we lost his presence near the goal.”
Work Ethic and Leadership
Amorim praised Fernandes’s strong work ethic and dedication, stating,
“He leads by example, always willing to put in the effort. He plays through discomfort at times; however, his passion sometimes leads to frustration, causing him to lose focus. He has to be in the right positions to receive the ball better. It’s crucial that he gets the support he needs.”
This summer reassured the coaching staff, as they begin the new season with the right pieces in place to maximize Fernandes’s talent and leadership.
