182-goal forward says one ‘unbelievable’ Man Utd star has reached a ‘completely new level’ under Amorim



Ruben Amorim has struggled to get the best out of a host of the Manchester United players at his disposal since he succeeded Erik ten Hag last November.

The likes of Andre Onana, Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee – all Ten Hag signings – have come under the microscope in recent months for their lacklustre showings, though the latter has moved up in fans’ estimations as of late for his efforts in attack  – rather than at No.9.

Yet, credit where credit’s due, the head coach has allowed a handful of Reds to truly flourish in his new system. Prior to his injury setback, Amad Diallo was enjoying the most prolific season of his career after finally being granted the starting role he so evidently deserved over the last year.

Bruno Fernandes has essentially been the Red Devils’ sole talisman since he arrived at the club. However, even he fell victim to stagnant form at the beginning of the term when United were in complete disarray.

That was until he endured a resurgent spell when his compatriot took charge; now, the skipper boasts eight goals and six assists in 25 appearances across all competitions under Amorim, making him the side’s most influential and dependable player by a country mile.

‘Unbelievable’ Fernandes singled out for praise

Fernandes has been United’s main provider under Amorim. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)

His latest contribution was a scintillating, inch-perfect free-kick to take the lead against Arsenal on Sunday, which would eventually earn United a point when the spoils were shared come the full-time whistle. Reacting to the afternoon’s affairs at Old Trafford, Troy Deeney said in his BBC Sport column: “I have been critical of Fernandes over the years.

“He is the type of person that got away with it when the team were poor under Erik ten Hag. Since the new manager has come in, he has shown a completely new level of character.

“If Manchester United want to get to where they aspire to be then they need this guy. They cannot get rid of him. It was also unbelievable technique for the free-kick.”