Bruno Fernandes was acting like a brat at Liverpool in 2023, but fast-forward two seasons and he’s acting like a Manchester United captain should, as the Red Devils gave Ruben Amorim a big win.
Jeremy joined the Daily Star in 2010 as Manchester football correspondent and has been chief sports writer for over 10 years. He provides expert coverage of Manchester United and Manchester City, the entire Premier League and English football teams. Jeremy has covered Wimbledon, golf majors and the Olympics, as well as the soccer, rugby and cricket World Cups.
He was not one of the three selected by Ruben Amorim for special praise. But he should have. This is because Bruno Fernandes has received some criticism in the past. Therefore, they should be celebrated when they lead with important victories.
Show the right example, not the wrong example. On the same Anfield pitch in 2023, Fernandes committed an embarrassing act in a humiliating 7-0 defeat. Critics labeled him “embarrassing” and “a shambles.” At that time, I felt a little tender.
Because that afternoon Fernandes put United’s famous badge to shame. He faked an injury, scolded officials during the second half when United conceded six goals, shoved a linesman and threw his arms in the air from the center circle when he realized he had not been substituted. He asked her to take it off.
read more: Rio Ferdinand witnesses Sene Lamence incident with Manchester United stars and leaves without questionread more: Gabby Logan says “I almost died inside” after famous host’s nasty comments
In short, Fernandes embodies everything a team doesn’t want in a captain.
Instead of being a leader of men, Fernandez acted like a child. It’s like a kid getting a conker trampled on in the school playground.
This wasn’t the first time Fernandes’ frustrations had gotten to him, and it wouldn’t be the last.
But last weekend at Anfield, the world of football saw the good side of Fernandes, rather than the bad or downright ugly side.
The Portuguese was in outstanding command this time, showing the attitude and work rate that should be expected of a United captain.
He did not allow his temperament to let him or his teammates down. However, he has now set a standard that must be continuously maintained. And it’s not just the games that mean more to United, like against Liverpool.
Will Fernandes be able to back this up with similar leadership when Brighton visit Old Trafford this weekend? Because if he could, he might have just turned the corner.
At the ripe old age of 31, he may have finally become an adult.
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