Erik ten Hag insists Bruno Fernandes will remain Manchester United captain in Harry Maguire’s absence despite harsh criticism for the Portuguese star’s temper during the 7-0 win over Liverpool on Sunday
Fernandes was criticized for feigning injury, crouching down to cover his face as defender Ibrahima Konate’s left hand slid across his chest, pushed a line referee and then refused to turn around when Stefan Bajcetic passed him late in the game. lost equaling United’s record.
Bruno Fernandes was criticized for his outrageous actions
There were also allegations that Fernandes asked to be taken off when Anthony Elanga replaced Marcus Rashford in the 85th minute, although United sources have since said he would only clarify with the coaching staff if he changed position. mind.
This leads to some possibility that Bruno will be stripped of the captain’s armband by manager Ten Hag, a position he has assumed for most of the season when Maguire is not on the pitch.
The Daily Mail also reveɑled that Fernandes’ behavior has upset some of his teammates, who are unsure if he should be named permanent captain should Maguire leave in the summer.
Bruno Fernandes wears the captain’s armband of Man Utd when Maguire is not playing
However, the 52-year-old strategist backed the Portuguese star, saying: “He is playing an excellent season. He has a really important role to play in why we are where we are now. “He’s energizing the team, not just running a lot at full intensity, but in the right way and in the right direction. He’s coaching the players, he’s an inspiration.”
“But nobody is perfect, everyone makes mistakes. We have to learn and he has to learn. He will do it because he is smart. I am very happy to have Bruno Fernandes in the team and he will be the captain. when Harry wasn’t on the field.”
Bruno Fernandes is still guaranteed the captaincy by Coach Ten Hag
Appearing with Ten Hag at a press conference to preview Thursday’s Europa League round of 16 first leg against Real Betis, Rashford also cast a vote of confidence for Fernandes and suggested he was acting only out of a desire to win. victory.mMarcus Rashford affirmed, the former Sporting CP star has always been a great leader of the Red Devils.
Speaking at the press conference before the match against Real Betis, the English striker shared (quoted by Man Utd’s official website):
“As you can imagine, I love playing with Bruno. For a striker like me, he’s the perfect player to play with.”
Man Utd’s star striker defended Bruno Fernandes against recent criticism from experts.
“I think Bruno is a great leader for us, even if he’s not the captain, that’s always a good sign. He’s helped other players become better leaders. ”
“The reality is, we can’t be a well-organized team if only one leader is the captain. Bruno has helped us a lot in terms of bringing leadership skills, that goes on since from the moment he came to the team.”