Ruben Amorim: Manchester United Need "More Brunos" Like Captain Fernandes
Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim has emphasized the critical importance of captain Bruno Fernandes to the club, stating they need "more players" with similar qualities to address their current struggles.
Following the 1-1 draw with Arsenal at Old Trafford, Amorim was effusive in his praise for the Portuguese midfielder, who once again demonstrated his leadership and tactical acumen. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta acknowledged that Fernandes was "too clever for us and the referee" in how he positioned his first-half free-kick that gave United the lead.
"We need more Brunos, that is clear," Amorim stated. "It's not just the quality and the character. He makes some mistakes but he is so decisive with and without the ball."
The United boss highlighted Fernandes' mental fortitude and versatility: "He steps up all the time. He can show some frustration in some moments that can hurt him more than everyone. I understand that. He wants to win. But he is always available, can play in different positions and when we need a goal and an assist he is always there."
Fernandes has been United's standout performer in what has otherwise been a disappointing season. With seven Premier League goals, he leads the club's scoring charts in the league, while his total of 12 goals in all competitions also puts him at the top. His 14 goal involvements in the Premier League far outshine his teammates, with only Amad having more than Marcus Rashford's five contributions.
Since joining Manchester United in February 2020, Fernandes has been involved in 109 goals across all competitions. Only Liverpool's Mohamed Salah (177) and Tottenham's Son Heung-min (124) have better records during this period, underlining Fernandes' remarkable consistency despite United's fluctuating fortunes.
The statistics highlight how crucial Fernandes has been in keeping United from slipping further down the table, with the team currently sitting in an uncomfortable 14th position.
Amorim appears to be relying heavily on Fernandes as he seeks to improve results while simultaneously developing a more attractive style of play. Against Arsenal, United had just 31.8% possession, continuing a pattern that has persisted since Jose Mourinho's tenure where the team's best results have come through counter-attacking football.
On a day marked by significant fan protests against the club's ownership, Amorim expressed his desire to change United's approach: "When you coach Manchester United, you cannot play too much like that," he told Sky Sports. "You have to try to win the game."
The Portuguese coach acknowledged the passionate fanbase and promised a different style in the future: "This club will never die. That is clear. This is a big business and maybe all the fans in this league sometimes feel it is harder to go to the games and pay for tickets. We want to give them a lot of effort. In the future, we will not play like that."
As Amorim begins his project to revitalize Manchester United, finding more players with Fernandes' quality, character, and commitment appears to be at the top of his agenda.
