Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand has raised questions about captain Bruno Fernandes after United’s 1-0 defeat to Arsenal on the opening weekend of the Premier League.
The game at Old Trafford showed positives for the Red Devils, but also worrying signs that need fixing fast.
United Lose Opener After Goalkeeping Error
United started the season with high hopes under Ruben Amorim.
New signings Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha both started, while Benjamin Sesko came on in the second half.
The new attackers gave energy and pace to the team and looked bright in moments.
But the match was decided by one mistake. Goalkeeper Altay Bayindir failed to deal with a corner, and Riccardo Calafiori scored the only goal of the game for Arsenal.
It was a soft goal to give away and left United fans frustrated as the team created chances but couldn’t score.
Ferdinand Sees Positives and Negatives
After the match, Rio Ferdinand gave his honest view.
He said it was one of the most dominant performances he has seen from United against a big side in recent years, even though they lost.
He praised the energy of Cunha and Mbeumo, saying they gave United real threat with their pace and runs.
He also noticed patterns in play that showed Amorim’s training ideas are starting to come through.
But Ferdinand also warned about the negatives. He said the goal was too cheap to give away and that Bayindir “has to do better”.
He also mentioned that when Bruno Fernandes plays deeper in midfield, he can lose focus.
According to Ferdinand, Bruno’s lapses in concentration and his urge to push forward too quickly could be a problem against top physical teams like Arsenal.
Bruno Fernandes Under the Spotlight
Bruno has been United’s captain and main creative spark for several years, but Ferdinand believes his game must improve if United are to challenge for trophies.
thepeoplesperson.com
Playing deeper means he must be more disciplined and not lose the ball in dangerous areas.
Ferdinand added that United didn’t put enough players in the box when attacking, although Sesko could change that as he settles into the team.
What’s Next for United?
Manager Ruben Amorim now has work to do. United face Fulham away on August 24, and fans will expect a strong response.
Amorim will want to keep the positives from the Arsenal game, the pace, energy and pressing but also cut out the cheap mistakes.
The defeat to Arsenal was painful, but Ferdinand’s comments show there is still reason for hope.
United have talent and new signings who can make a difference.
The big question is whether Bruno Fernandes can adjust his role and lead the team with more discipline.
For more Manchester United News, follow us on Facebook for instant updates directly to your phone.
Discover more from MUFCNews
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
