Portugal are finalising their preparations ahead of Tuesday’s Euro 2024 opener against the Czech Republic, with Bruno Fernandes expected to play a starring role in their tournament.
The Manchester United captain turns 30 in September and has two years remaining on his contract with the 20-time champions of England.
He is an integral member of Erik ten Hag’s side and regularly leads the charts with chances created – while influencing the majority of games with his undeniable sense of class.
The Maia native is adored by Reds across the globe, with supporters filling Old Trafford with chants of adoration towards his name with every passing fixture.
However, after public ommissions of a desire for the club to match his expectations, a sense of uncertainty remains around his future, with reports now suggesting interest from Saudi Arabia.
Dear United
Following an open letter to the Manchester faithful in May, Fernandes elaborated on his love for the club but emphasised the importance of hierarchy to match his desire for competitiveness.
“I love to step out at Old Trafford more than anything in the world. I don’t want to leave. This has always been my ultimate dream,” he penned in The Players’ Tribune.
“I just want my expectations to fit with the expectations of the club. If you go talk to any fan, they will tell you the same thing.
“We want to compete for the league. We want to be playing Champions League football. We want to be in cup finals. That is the standard. That is what I want. That is what you all deserve.
“I just want to keep fighting. I want to be here.”
The player has made his intentions clear, and like Ten Hag, the vast majority of Reds are eager for clarity on the future of their captain.
Football Insider has revealed the emergence of the Saudi interest but also stated that Sir Jim Ratcliffe and co would begin contractual negotiations upon the conclusion of the European Championships.
With a highly-documented rebuild expected at Old Trafford, Bruno is a walking example of a seasoned veteran who adds a wealth of desire and experience to the dressing room.
Considering the calibre of youth that has solidified itself as an integral part of the first-team squad, retaining the Portuguese represents one of the easier decisions over the coming months.
The figures behind the genius
From a simplistic point of view, he contributed 15 goals and 13 assists in 48 appearances this campaign.
Furthermore, he led the Premier League with 113 chances created – 11 more than his competitors.
But these are the end product of a game that defies logic weekly.
Consider the distribution before an assist – the playmaking and ability to control a game. Fernandes is in the top percentile in Europe.
(Figures are an average per 90 minutes from the last 365 days)
- Key passes 3.15
- Progressive passes 8.14
- Passes into final third 5.22
- Passes into penalty area 2.39
But, his impact is not limited to creation – he sets the tone for the team with work-rate and commitment without possession.
(Figures are an average per 90 minutes from the last 365 days)
- Ball recoveries 5.78
- Tackles 1.99
- Clearances 1.45
- Blocks 1.38
- Interceptions 0.74
When factoring these defensive metrics, he ranks in the top eight percentile throughout the ‘big five’ leagues.
Since arriving from Sporting in 2020, Fernandes has been consistently available and delivered undeniable reliability.
There is a sense of naivety amongst certain portions of the fanbase who feel the club would be better moving him on and focusing on an alternative talent.
Given the common sense shown by Ineos during their end-of-season review, I can only hope the same logic is applied here.
What do you think about Bruno – should he see out his career at Old Trafford? Let us know in the comment section below.
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