Bruno Fernandes has rejuvenated Manchester United

Manchester United’s 3-0 victory over Watford on Sunday took the club to within 3 points of Chelsea in 4th place. However, United fans would have been more pleased with the man of the match performance put in by winter signing Bruno Fernandes.

Fernandes scored the first goal of the game towards the end of the first half after he won and converted a penalty. He also grabbed an assist for Mason Greenwood’s goal after a quick counter-attack.

Playing behind the striker, Fernandes excelled in the number 10 role by always looking for the ball and playing quick passes forward for the attacking players to latch on to. His range of passing has also been impressive, as he regularly looks capable of picking out players on the opposite side of the pitch.

He has also been an asset to the team in the defensive phase, as he is willing to press the opposition players and win the ball back for the team as quickly as possible. United even finally look dangerous from set-pieces, with his corner deliveries capable of finding the aggressive Harry Maguire.

Bruno’s performance versus Watford was the result of consistent performances put in by the player since signing for the club. After an impressive showing against Chelsea in his second game, his stock with the United fanbase rose further after his 10-minute cameo against Club Brugge in the Europa League.

With United struggling to create anything of note, Fernandes made an immediate impact after coming on. During his time on the pitch, United’s total shots were doubled. He was arguably the best player on the pitch after just 10 minutes.

With another commanding display against Watford, his stock has risen higher with the supporters, who serenaded the player throughout the game. The Red Devils have struggled this season due to the lack of a creative player on the pitch. 

With the prolonged absence of Paul Pogba, who looks set to leave the club, they have struggled to break down teams. But with Fernandes, their days of struggling against the smaller teams might be coming to an end.

With both Pereira and Lingard left out of the squad to face Watford due to their poor form, Fernandes has further highlighted the effect a player with quality end product can have on the team. 

United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer compared the player to former United players Paul Scholes and Juan Sebastian Veron in his post-match interview and if the Red Devils stand any chance of Champions League qualification, they probably need a player like Fernandes to be on his game every week from now till the end of the season.

Cover image credits: teamTALK