Man United vs Real Sociedad: Fernandes Urged to Trust His Teammates More
Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim has no doubts about Bruno Fernandes’ ability to step up when it matters most. However, he believes his captain needs to “trust” his teammates more in crucial moments.
The Portuguese manager praised Fernandes after the midfielder delivered a stunning hat-trick in Man United vs Real Sociedad, leading the Red Devils to a dominant 4-1 Europa League victory at Old Trafford.
Fernandes: A Player of Criticism and Praise
Fernandes has often been a polarizing figure, attracting both criticism and admiration. His leadership came under scrutiny when former United captain Gary Neville questioned his temperament following a humiliating 7-0 defeat against Liverpool in March 2023. Similarly, club legend Roy Keane has been vocal about Fernandes’ inconsistent performances, even mocking claims that United’s season would be worse without him.
Currently, United sit in 14th place, heading toward their worst league campaign since relegation in 1973-74. Yet, Fernandes has remained a crucial asset, leading as the club’s top scorer with 15 goals—while no other teammate has even reached double figures.
Fernandes’ Decisive Impact in Key Matches
The midfield maestro has been United’s savior on multiple occasions. In Man United vs Real Sociedad, his performance was once again instrumental, rescuing his team after they fell behind. This season, Fernandes has scored in 12 matches, with his goals proving decisive in at least eight of them—turning losses into draws and draws into victories.
“When we need him, he is always there,” said Amorim. “He brings the ball forward, scores goals, and leads by example. He is the perfect captain for our team, and we need to help him win titles.”
Just in the past month, Fernandes has netted crucial goals, including an equalizer against Fulham in the FA Cup and a stunning free-kick that salvaged a result against Everton. His presence has been key to keeping United’s hopes alive in both domestic and European competitions.
A Leader, But Not Without Flaws
Despite his leadership and durability—having played 43 matches this season, second only to Diogo Dalot—Fernandes has one notable weakness: his tendency to abandon his position in pursuit of the ball.
Amorim pointed out that this habit sometimes disrupts United’s tactical structure.
“We know that sometimes he gets frustrated,” Amorim explained. “His desire to win is so strong that when things aren’t going well, he moves out of position to chase the ball. Sometimes, he just needs to trust his teammates more.”
As Man United vs Real Sociedad showcased, Fernandes is undoubtedly United’s talisman, but for the club to succeed as a unit, his leadership must balance individual brilliance with trust in his squad.
