Bruno Fernandes has sent Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim a clear message after his statement over the international break with Portugal.
Since arriving in Manchester in 2020, Bruno Fernandes has been a key talisman for Manchester United, scoring 64 and assisting 54 in his 206 Premier League appearances.
The Portuguese maestro has been a constant threat for the Red Devils despite their turbulent form over the past five years, but since the arrival of Ruben Amorim, his role has changed.
When Amorim joined the Reds at the back end of 2024, he immediately set his side up in his unique 3-4-2-1 system, with Fernandes being a part of his midfield pivot.
This has restricted the 31-year-old to a less attacking role, much to the dismay of many United fans and pundits, who think Fernandes’ qualities should be platformed.
Fernandes’ Portugal statement
During a 9-1 rout of Armenia, the United captain scored an impressive hat-trick for his national side, Portugal, to help them secure their spot at the 2026 World Cup.
The talismanic midfielder reminded United fans what he is capable of when he is given the license to attack in a more advanced role, which may present Amorim with a conundrum.
The attacking positions at Old Trafford are currently occupied by United’s new signings, Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo, who have been in fine form during the Reds’ five-match unbeaten streak.
Although it would be unwise to displace either of United’s talented acquisitions, Fernandes’ hat-trick will raise the question: Should he be playing in a more advanced role for the Reds?
Fernandes to force Amorim adjustment?
As reported by The Mirror, via Daily Star, Fernandes was deployed as an attacking midfielder against Armenia, where he was supported by two more defensive-minded midfielders behind him.
With the Reds looking to acquire a new midfielder over the next couple of transfer windows, this could present Amorim with a chance to adjust his system to better suit his captain.
Although an exit may be on the cards for Casemiro, United still have Kobbie Mainoo at their disposal, who could be better utilised in a three-man midfield behind Fernandes.
It is unlikely that Amorim will ever stray away from his current system, although if he were ever to opt for a different formation, a three-man midfield could get the best out of his current midfielders.
Make sure to follow UtdDistrict on X, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok to never miss out on any of our Manchester United content. Our podcast, What the Devil?, is streamed live every Thursday at 14:00 pm (GMT) on the United View YouTube channel.