Fernandes set for first taste of Manchester derby
LONDON: Bruno Fernandes can cement his status as Manchester United’s new talisman when the Portugal midfielder gets his first taste of the derby rivalry with Manchester City on Sunday.
Fernandes has made a flying start with United following his January move from Sporting Lisbon for an initial £47 million.
The 25-year-old has scored three goals and provided two assists in his seven appearances, helping Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s team extend their unbeaten run to nine games in all competitions.
Since the Alex Ferguson era ended in 2013, United have struggled to find players with the personality and presence to cope with the pressure of trying to emulate those golden days.
But the influential Fernandes already appears a perfect fit.
He has shown no signs of being intimidated by the task of becoming United’s leading man.
Said to be a vocal presence in training sessions, Fernandes displayed his leadership qualities with several animated discussions with Diogo Dalot, Scott McTominay and Fred during Thursday’s FA Cup fifth-round win at Derby.
“I like to see that in a player, he doesn’t change coming into a new team. He’s the same as he was at Sporting,” Solskjaer said.
“That’s a boy with confidence, with quality, good form and that’s his personality. Everyone should be themselves. He’s come in as a leader and he’s shown he’s a leader.” United were reportedly balked at Sporting’s summer asking price for Fernandes, but the fee they paid in the January window is already looking a bargain.
Fernandes’ form has raised fresh questions about the future of United’s malcontent midfielder Paul Pogba, who is currently sidelined by an ankle injury. Pogba has been the face of United’s global brand since returning to Old Trafford from Juventus in 2016, but this week there were renewed reports the unsettled France star is still keen to leave. Real Madrid and Juventus are said to be waiting to pounce.
Regardless of Pogba’s future, Fernandes will face City with a chance to strengthen the bond with fans who have already taken to chanting his name on the Stretford End.