Bruno Fernandes led the way for Manchester United as they secured a 4-2 win over relegation-threatened Sheffield United. The victory did not come easily as the Blades took the lead in the 35th minute. United replied to that quickly with a goal from Harry Maguire. However, the Blades looked determined and restored their lead in the second half with a strike from Ben Brereton Diaz.
Things looked tricky for the Red Devils as Sheffield was looking desperate for three points. Bruno Fernandes then showed his class as he took control of things to help Manchester get back in the game. The Portuguese midfielder first converted a penalty in the 61st minute and then scored an absolute screamer from outside the box in the 81st minute to give United a 3-2 lead in the game. He continued his brilliance with a terrific assist to Hojlund for the teams fourth goal on the night.
Despite all the criticism he has been getting, Bruno Fernandes has been terrific for Manchester United this season. He has bagged 10 goals and 7 assists in the Premier League and this makes them their top goal scorer and assist provider in the league. These are all great numbers, but they have gone under the radar due to United’s disappointing performances.
Bruno Fernandes is a unique leader
Since coming to the club, Bruno Fernandes has been one of the vocal leaders in the dressing room. He is very expressive and is often seen showcasing his passion in the form of gestures on the field. While this has been misunderstood by many, it is clear that he has the right intentions for the club. He has been an ironman of a player for them in a season where United have had over 60 different cases of injuries.
When he first arrived, Fernandes was invited with open arms as the club needed someone like him as they lacked a proper creative midfielder. However, in the past years, the fans have started to criticise him for United’s failures. The 29-year-old has had over 10 goals in all but one season since his move in 2021. He has been consistent with his performances and puts in a lot of effort to help them get over the line.
There have been instances where he has let his emotions get the better of him, for example: in the 7-0 defeat to Liverpool, he was seen pushing the referees off and asking to be subbed while his team were getting battered. However, every player has had bad moments and although that is one game which will always be brought up while discussing Bruno Fernandes’ legacy at the club, fans need to understand that players are allowed to make mistakes. Since that moment, he has done great things for the club and will do till his time at Manchester United comes to an end.
Manchester United need more leaders like Bruno Fernades
Manchester United’s recent performances have not been great, but they have still managed to stay afloat and credit for this needs to go to Bruno Fernandes. He has rallied his troops every time they have been behind and that has helped them avoid some embarrassing defeats including the one against Sheffield United where the club were 2-1 down at one point.
Harry Maguire is a great leader as well, but he has had a difficult time at United himself. The club need to bring in more leaders like Bruno Fernandes who will hold players accountable as that is the only way the club can get back their glory.
