‘It’s a struggle to watch’: Saha accuses two Reds of being detrimental to Fernandes’ fluctuating form

Bruno Fernandes’ form since signing his three-year contract extension in the summer has left a lot to be desired for Manchester United fans.

Frequently the Reds’ dependable talisman during turbulent periods, the club captain has failed to make his mark amidst a worst-ever start on record for United.

He is yet to open his account for the 2024/2025 term after a season in which he netted a respectable 15 goals across all competitions. Fernandes has notched only one assist in the Premier League thus far, where Southampton are the only side to have scored fewer goals after the opening seven matches.

The 30-year-old’s temper has recently been brought into question, too, given that he was shown two straight red cards in successive games: initially during the 3-0 defeat to Tottenham Hotspur before being brandished a red only four days later – albeit the former has since been overturned.

Louis Saha, a two-time title winner with United, has voiced his concerns over the current state of the midfield at Old Trafford, claiming that the likes of Christian Eriksen and Kobbie Mainoo have proven detrimental to their skipper’s form at times.

Fernandes’ counterparts aren’t aiding his form, claims Saha

“It could be a bit of bad luck that Bruno Fernandes hasn’t scored yet; he’s hit the bar, and these things happen,” Saha told Paddy Power, as cited by the Metro.

“He doesn’t seem to be as confident, but also Manchester United’s tactics are a part of it. He hasn’t been helped or been given many passes by the wingers. His talent does the talking – but when the talent doesn’t talk, you’ll find him struggling. His work rate has been the same, but the team aren’t linking up as well.

“Some of those tactical choices in midfield – United have good players, but they’re missing the legs. Kobbie Mainoo and Christian Eriksen are good on the ball, but sometimes they play too deep and not close enough to the strikers.

“They’re too far away, and their positioning is not right – it’s a struggle to watch.”

After featuring for his national team in their forthcoming double-header of fixtures, Fernandes will be hoping to play an integral role in United’s much-needed turnaround when they return to action against Brentford on October 19.