Siddharth Juyal
Marcel Sabitzer snubs Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes while naming three leaders in the United squad.
Former Manchester United midfielder Marcel Sabitzer ignored Bruno Fernandes while naming the three leaders of the current United squad. Sabitzer gave a special mention to Casemiro, Luke Shaw and Lisandro Martinez for their importance and leadership abilities.
The 29-year-old had a short loan spell at United last season after signing on 1st February 2023 from Bayern Munich. Sabitzer played regularly in his short spell until his injury in May which ruled him out for the remaining season.
United did not sign the Austria International on a permanent deal and opted to prioritize a younger player, Mason Mount. The 29-year-old joined Borussia Dortmund from Bayern during the summer transfer window.
Sabitzer told The Athletic that three leaders in the current United squad provide structure and stability while snubbing Fernandes. He said:
“I feel very positive about my time there [At Manchester United] and still talk to a couple of people. There’s a lot of noise, results are not good, they’ve had defeats at home, which almost felt unthinkable last season. I feel sorry for them because they’re all good guys, and extremely hungry for success. Casemiro, Luke Shaw and Lisandro Martinez – they are leaders that provide structure and stability to the team.”
United beat Fulham 0-1 in the last Premier League game at Craven Cottage after a late winning goal from Fernandes. The Red Devils went to Craven Cottage after two consecutive home losses against bitter rivals Manchester City and Newcastle United.
United manager Erik ten Hag appointed Fernandes as the new senior team captain before the beginning of the current season. The Dutchman stripped Harry Maguire of the captaincy role as the defender failed to solidify his first-team spot.
United have lost eight games from 16 matches in all competitions this season and shown vulnerabilities in many areas. The Red Devils have suffered from a lack of team chemistry and a particular style of play to build momentum. Furthermore, important first-team players like Fernandes have failed to make an impact in numerous games.
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Many experts like ex-United captain Roy Keane criticized the 29-year-old before the Fulham game for his lack of leadership skills. Keane contended that Fernandes did not meet the expected standards and advocated for his removal from the captaincy.
The Portuguese playmaker has shown his visible displeasure at the games where things get tough for the Red Devils. Fernandes lacks the level-headedness and calmness on the pitch at times when United need it the most. However, the Portugal international is still the best creative outlet in the team and led by example against Fulham.
