Ahead of Saturday’s Nations League encounter between Poland and Portugal, Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes is eager to recapture his goalscoring form and reclaim his impeccably high standards.
Erik ten Hag’s men have struggled to convert opportunities during a frustrating campaign, languishing 14th in the Premier League after seven games – missing an unforgivable 17 big chances.
Fernandes has failed to register a goal in 11 appearances (in all competitions), striking the woodwork against Crystal Palace and most recently at Villa Park.
Inevitably, the captain’s poor form has coincided with his side’s underwhelming start, leading to an ongoing narrative about his suitability to lead the 20-time English Champions.
But, despite back-to-back dismissals and weekly frustrations, Bruno is determined to hit the ground running following his return to the North West.
“I have to live up to those expectations”
Having endured a 12-game spell without finding the back of the net for the Reds – his longest since his arrival in January 2020 – the 30-year-old addressed a disappointing period ahead of Portugal’s trip to Warsaw.
“It’s not a positive moment,” he told the media. “We’re not winning games, and the national team space is completely different. I’ve felt very at ease – the dynamics are very good.
“I’m in my country, I speak my language, and I have better food. I have demonstrated a good level in the national team.
“It’s a space where I feel good, and I feel like I can enjoy my football at a very high level due to the dynamics we have and the quality I have at my side.”
Not one to hide from an underwhelming display, the Maia native is aware the Old Trafford faithful deserve far more and is determined to play his part in a return to form at club level.
“It’s about improving as soon as I get there [Manchester],” he continued.
“Making the goals appear again because I’m a midfielder that scores a lot of goals and has over the years always shown a very high level of goals.
“I have to live up to those expectations and to my standards. What I’ve been doing is not at all what I want for this season because I haven’t scored at the club yet.
“I hope that once I get there, I can score and help my club get back to winning ways and be at a good level.”
United will face Brentford following the international break without a win in five competitive outings.
Pressure continues to build against Ten Hag, with his squad of underperforming stars yet to truly grab the season by the scruff of its neck.
With Ineos contemplating their moves ahead of the restart, all eyes will be on Old Trafford for the October 19 fixture as United attempt to convince the world of their immense qualities.
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