Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim has highlighted a crucial issue that captain Bruno Fernandes must resolve if the Red Devils are to bounce back from a disastrous 2024/25 season.
Despite Fernandes’ standout individual performances last term, Amorim believes the Portuguese playmaker needs to channel his passion more constructively—by showing greater trust in his teammates and curbing his frustration on the pitch.
United’s previous campaign was one to forget. The club finished 15th in the Premier League with just 42 points (11 wins, 9 draws, 18 losses) and fell short in the UEFA Europa League final, narrowly losing 1-0 to Tottenham Hotspur. However, Fernandes was one of the few bright spots, contributing an impressive 19 goals and 19 assists in 57 appearances across all competitions.
Still, the midfielder came under scrutiny for often trying to carry the team on his own, sometimes drifting out of position or forcing plays that backfired.
Following a 2-1 pre-season win over West Ham United—where Fernandes scored both goals—Amorim spoke to MUTV and stressed that his captain must evolve his leadership by allowing others to step up.
“It was obvious last season—his goals, his assists, his work ethic. Bruno is our leader and a big influence, both on and off the pitch,” Amorim told MUTV (via Independent).
“He works incredibly hard, he plays through pain, and he always gives his all. But sometimes, when things aren’t going well, he gets frustrated and loses focus on his role. He tries too hard to do everything himself. He has to trust the team more—sometimes the best thing he can do is wait for the ball and let others do their job.”
Amorim added that with more quality around him this season, Fernandes won’t need to shoulder such a heavy creative burden. The Portuguese coach is counting on the midfielder to lead by example—but in a smarter, more composed manner.
Manchester United’s next fixture in the EPL Summer Series tour in the United States is scheduled for Wednesday, July 30, against Bournemouth.
