Siddharth Juyal
Portugal head coach Roberto Martinez spoke in detail about the importance of Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes
Portugal head coach Roberto Martinez lauded Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes for his pivotal role in his country’s success. Martinez’s team has already qualified for the EURO 24 after beating Slovakia 3-2 in their seventh Euro 24 qualifiers game.
Portugal defeated Bosnia and Herzegovina 0-5 on Monday as they continued to dominate the Group J of Euro 24 qualifiers.
Fernandes’ country scored 32 goals and only conceded two in eight matches as they trampled every opposition.
The Red Devils captain has been crucial for Portugal throughout the qualification campaign as he featured in all eight games. Fernandes has scored five goals and made seven assists so far.
Martinez talked to Record (h/t Manchester Evening News) about the variety of qualities that Fernandes brings to the table. He said:
“Bruno Fernandes is a very good professional, a player who has seven assists, an intelligent player, who adapts to the qualities of his teammates. He needs training to understand the idea of the game and has a high level of execution. Technically he has a vision of the game that I think is of superlative quality and I really like his work. He’s adapted to many positions, he gives structure, he gives balance, he’s a key player for us.”
United manager Erik ten Hag gave the club’s captaincy to Fernandes before the start of the new season. The 29-year-old has been a consistent performer for the Red Devils since signing for the club in January 2020. Fernandes has played 195 games for the Red Devils while contributing 66 goals and 56 assists in all competitions.
However, the Portugal international struggled to have a bigger impact for United than he would’ve liked this season. Fernandes played 10 games for the Red Devils in all competitions and only scored two goals and provided two assists.
More Manchester United News-
- Manchester United target Adrien Rabiot hints at Juventus stay ahead of the European Championship
- Anthony Martial could leave Manchester United in the upcoming transfer window
- Manchester United legend David De Gea has congratulated his former teammate Bruno Fernandes for Portugal’s EURO 24 qualification.
Critics have targeted the 29-year-old for his performances, and Ten Hag has also faced criticism for deploying him at the right flank. Nevertheless, Fernandes tried leading by example like against Burnley in United’s 0-1 Premier League victory at Turf Moor. The Portuguese scored a stunning winner to help his team get a crucial three points.
Fernandes’ performances coincide with the struggle of the club so far this season. The Red Devils have lost six out of 11 matches they’ve played in all competitions. The United captain will attempt to help resurrect his team’s form once club football is back after the international break.
