Roberto Martinez hails Bruno Fernandes as a true leader who “never hides” amid Manchester United’s toughest years | OneFootball

Roberto Martinez has called Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes 'a leader' and has praised the midfielder for 'never' hiding.

Martinez manages the 31-year-old at international level, where Fernandes is a central part of the Portugal set-up. Fernandes scored a hat-trick as Portugal booked their place at the 2026 World Cup with a 9-1 win over Armenia in November.

The midfielder is also having an impressive campaign at club level, where his 12 assists are aPremier League leading total.

Fernandes has produced consistent numbers and performances since joining Manchester United in January 2020, despite a challenging period for the club collectively.

He recently passed 200 goals and assists for the Red Devils, with only Wayne Rooney achieving the feat in less games for Manchester United in thePremier League era.

Speaking to theStick to Football podcast, Martinez was full of praise for the player's leadership qualities and willingness to take responsibility on the pitch.

“I think he’s very unfairly assessed, I would say, because I think if we are very objective, to be the captain of Manchester United in the last three or four years, I bet it’s been incredibly tough at every level," Martinez said.

“And what I appreciate from him is he never hides. Never hides. And I’m not going to value if he makes the right pass, the right execution. But whatever happens in any action, he’s the one that is, he’s a leader. He’s a leader.

“And the way he’s very emotional, but in a very respected way by his teammates. When the teammates see Bruno upset, they react, they know that is something.”