Solskjaer may prevent Manchester United star Bruno Fernandes from accepting Portugal call-up
According to the Evening Standard, Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer may prevent Bruno Fernandes from being called up for international duty with Portugal.
The midfielder is arguably United’s best player. The club often depends on him for inspiration and it has been evident so far.
An important player for Portugal, the United ace is expected to get called up when international fixtures return later this month. The Iberians take on Azerbaijan, Serbia and Luxembourg in a 2024 World Cup qualifying triple-header.
Solskjaer is not a fan of the player reporting for international duty, especially while the COVID-19 pandemic is still going strong. While a decision is yet to be made, the United’s manager’s feelings on the matter are pretty clear.
“We have not sat down and made a proper call on that one but it doesn’t make sense if you lose your player for 10 days’ isolation.”
Players need to quarantine in hotels for 10 days upon returning from nations on the UK’s coronavirus “red list”. This has set the stage nicely for a club versus country row in the coming weeks.
Every right to make the call
Solskjaer believes United have a hard call to make as we are the ones who pay his wages. FIFA has already stated that clubs are under no obligation to release players for international games.
“We are the ones paying the players … Fifa have given the rule that they don’t have to be released, so it is going to be a hard call to make to let them play in red-list countries.”
It will come as no surprise if United decided to do the same. After all, it makes little sense for the club to invest in the player only to have him sit out during a crucial phase of the season.
“I want Bruno ready for Brighton and hopefully we will be through in Europe and against Tottenham after that break.”
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Solskjaer has admitted in no uncertain terms that he expects Fernandes to be available for the games following the international break. Whether he will keep his foot down and make the call remains to be seen.