Bruno Fernandes yet again put in a masterful performance in Manchester United’s resounding 5-0 victory over Club Brugge. The Portuguese midfielder inspired his teammates to a comfortable victory with his pinpoint vision. He is proving to be a phenomenal signing and is looking to fire his side to Europa League triumph.
Bruno Fernandes is Making Manchester United More Dangerous
Bruno’s Magical Performance
It is not often a player joins a team in January and makes an immediate impact. We hear tales of signings needing time to bed in; to settle into new surroundings; to get to know his teammates. Not Bruno Fernandes. He has joined this Manchester United side and, within a month, looks like he belongs on the Old Trafford turf.
Against Brugge, Fernandes looked hungry to get Manchester United off to a quick start. Within ten minutes, he took two shots on target and looked to create chances for both Juan Mata and Odion Ighalo. He was setting out his stall for what was to come.
On 27 minutes, Fernandes coolly dispatched a penalty awarded for a handball from Simon Deli, which saw him sent off. The hop that Fernandes takes when he takes his penalties is already becoming iconic at Old Trafford. It epitomises the ease and class that he showcases when he plays. Shortly after, United went 2-0 up. The Portuguese lofted a perfectly weighted pass to the back post where Mata placed the ball across goal for Ighalo to tap in. The chance almost certainly wouldn’t arise without Fernandes’ supreme vision.
Throughout, the playmaker linked up well with others, moving the ball quickly. He quickened the tempo of the game, which suited United’s style and allowed them to run riot in the first half. He also played a hand in United’s third, when he played in Fred who set up Scott McTominay to go 3-0 up. The pace of United’s game will usually lead to inspired results. When they play the ball quicker, they tend to win. When they play the ball slower and more methodically, they tend to struggle. Fernandes’ energy and determination are making United’s play more effective.
Consistency is Key
All season, United’s issue has been consistency. They have struggled against teams you would expect them to beat comfortably. It is difficult to think of times when United have blown teams away this season. For as good as they have been in the big matches, United’s players have let themselves down when facing the more average Premier League sides. This is where individual brilliance matters. Step up, Bruno Fernandes.
Sunday’s fixture against Watford saw Fernandes score his first goal and provide two assists. Moments of quality like this set him apart from other midfielders at United. The pass into Anthony Martial was the kind of forward pass that the pacy forwards at United need to thrive on. Getting the ball in behind must be the priority, and when he is on the ball, it is Bruno’s priority.
This early on in his Premier League career, the 25-year old is averaging 3.3 shots and 2.3 key passes per 90 minutes, more than any other United midfielder. This directness and creativity is required for United to succeed.
Whether this kind of form can last remains to be seen. Of course, Bruno Fernandes has started brightly and has shone at Sporting Lisbon, but performing at this level consistently is tough. However, if he manages to do so, then United have got a masterful player at their disposal. One who will be key if they are to have continued success in the future.
Main Photo
