What Fernandes did to Rashford after missed sitter vs Liverpool shows exactly why he’s United captain

Bruno Fernandes was the fan-favourite to take the armband when it was taken off of Harry Maguire last summer.

It was soon revealed that he was also Erik ten Hag’s, as the Dutchman opted to promote Fernandes from vice to club captain ahead of the 2023/2024 campaign.

The Manchester United star had been – and remains – one of their most consistent, reliable and standout performers since he arrived in January 2020. Even without wearing the skipper’s band, his leadership and influence on the pitch from the moment he made his debut was clear for fans to see.

Fernandes is currently being praised by supporters for an admirable moment between himself and Marcus Rashford during last Sunday’s emphatic FA Cup triumph over Liverpool; after the forward missed a last-gasp sitter, he laid on the pitch with his head on his arm for a second before standing up and cutting a frustrated figure.

Having clocked Rashford’s exasperation, Fernandes quickly darted over to comfort and rally him ahead of extra-time.

The moment when Bruno went over to Rashford after he missed that chance in the last seconds and told him to keep his head up.

Yeah, that's a proper captain right there. ❤️pic.twitter.com/7P5jFzWpKx

— UF (@UtdFaithfuls) March 19, 2024

The Englishman went on to score a vital goal to draw the tie level at 3-3 – prior to Amad Diallo’s winner – and when sharing a snap of the night’s affairs on Instagram, his captain commented: “Told you”.

Footage courtesy of Manchester United.