Man Utd captain Bruno Fernandes hits back at critics with comparison to Roma legend Totti | OneFootball

Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has pushed back against criticism surrounding his trophy record at Old Trafford, invoking Roma icon Francesco Totti as an example of how greatness should not be measured solely by silverware.

Speaking on the Rio Ferdinand Presents podcast, Fernandes reflected on his time at Manchester United, stressing loyalty and responsibility during some of the club’s most difficult periods.

Since arriving in 2020, the Portuguese midfielder has often been one of United’s most influential figures, but has also faced scrutiny amid the club’s struggles to consistently challenge for major honours.

BILBAO, SPAIN – MAY 21: Destiny Udogie of Tottenham Hotspur reacts towards Bruno Fernandes of Manchester United during the UEFA Europa League Final 2025 between Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United at Estadio de San Mames on May 21, 2025 in Bilbao, Spain. (Photo by Michael Steele/Getty Images)

Bruno Fernandes revealed that he had opportunities to leave the club, but chose to stay. “When I arrived, beyond loving the club, I think my loyalty was similar to what I felt during the toughest periods,” he explained. “I could have left on two occasions. I refused, and the club also said no, they said they needed me.”

Bruno Fernandes points to Totti legacy at Roma to justify Man Utd record

Bruno Fernandes admitted frustration over the lack of trophies, but questioned the modern tendency to judge players purely by honours won. “Obviously my time here hasn’t been how I wanted it to be, because I wanted to win trophies and I haven’t won as many as I should or could have,” he said, adding that “nowadays people talk about players being better or worse depending on the trophies they win.”

WUHAN, CHINA – NOVEMBER 26: Former Italian football player Francesco Totti reacts during the 2023 World Super-footballer Games between American Star Team and European Star Team at Wuhan Sports Center on November 26, 2023 in Wuhan, China. (Photo by Wang He/Getty Images)

Fernandes then pointed to Totti’s legacy at Roma, drawing a clear parallel. “If you look back, Totti is known as one of the best players in Italy, and unfortunately for him he didn’t win many trophies. But everyone still says he’s one of the best to ever play for Italy,” he noted. “Roma haven’t won much since his time either, yet he is still the God of Rome.”

Addressing his critics directly, Fernandes acknowledged that a different career path might have brought more success. “I could have chosen another route and probably won more trophies,” he admitted. “People might talk about me differently because of that.” However, he concluded that his contribution still matters: “I believe what I’ve done for the club has been important, without taking anything away from the other players who have been here.”