Brother of top Man United star reveals how he often receives abuse due to blood ties | OneFootball

Ricardo Fernandes explains that being a sibling of Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has often earned him abuse on the pitch.

While football always had its fair share of famous brothers, in the Fernandes case, only one sibling made it to the very top of the echelon, while the other only plays on the semi-professional level.

Bruno has been plying his trade at Old Trafford since making the move from Sporting CP in January. The 30-year-old is now the club captain and the most creative force in the side.

Curiously, Ricardo is also the skipper and chief playmaker at his own club, but that happens to be Roffey in Division One of the Southern Combination Football League. The 34-year-old also supports himself and his family by working for the NHS.

But while some might think that having a famous and rich sibling could be a blessing, Bruno’s older brother reveals the downside.

Ricardo Fernandes explains what’s like to be Bruno Fernandes’ brother

Bruno Fernandes representing Portugal (Photo by @UtdTruthful on X)

While Ricardo is certainly proud of Bruno’s achievements on the top level, he reveals that his family ties often put a big target on his back, especially with his similar features making him unmistakable for his opponents on the pitch.

“We’ve got different lives. Bruno’s a professional footballer and I work for the NHS,” said Ricardo Fernandes in his interview with FourFourTwo.

“When I was young, my friends and close family probably thought I was the brother who was going to make it, but I didn’t and he did.”

“People tend to think, ‘Oh, he’s got this and that because of his brother’, but me and my partner have earned everything ourselves. I’m very proud of Bruno, though. I think he always looked at me growing up. We have a five-year age gap and he liked to come and play with me and my mates.

“I had to look after him – I didn’t want my friends kicking my brother if he was nutmegging them! I think that’s how he developed his strong mentality, playing against older opponents.

“Oh, yes, that happens [being targeted by opponents]. I’m not saying every game, but most games. I don’t mind people coming up to me and speaking about my brother. I’m glad Bruno is known around the world. Manchester United was a big step for him.

“You hear the criticism and sometimes it affects you. It’s tempting to comment, but you have to leave it.”