Opinion: Roy Keane is wrong, Bruno Fernandes is the exact type of captain Man Utd need right now

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·4 marzo 2025

Opinion: Roy Keane is wrong, Bruno Fernandes is the exact type of captain Man Utd need right now

The Manchester United captain, Bruno Fernandes, sparks strong reactions.

There’s very little in between with the midfielder. Either his ‘antics’ prove too much for your liking, or he’s the lifeline keeping the club afloat. Commentators like Roy Keane believe he’s disproportionately part of the problem.

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A lot of former players from the older guard view the position as something to be revered. The standard needs to be high, both in on-field performances and conduct. However, those were different times. United has since fallen. And they are closer to being in a relegation battle than anything else at the moment. Consequently, the 30-year-old actually embodies what is needed of a Man Utd captain right now.

Current squad needs to follow Fernandes’ lead

(Photo by Matt McNulty/Getty Images)

He shouts, scolds, and gets into it with the refs. Calm and composed are not ways to describe the Portuguese international on a regular basis. Now in his sixth year at United, it’s known how fiery the attacking player can get.

However, many view these characteristics as negatives. In an odd sense, those criticizing the current player’s leadership style should reverse their thought. Fernandes embodies the essence of what they are looking for.

The #8 passionately roams the pitch. Furthermore, his short fuse results from unacceptable mental errors and costly mistakes. Sometimes he misdirects this anger. But it stems from wanting to win.

Even when Man Utd gets results, he knows that the performances need to be better. Regardless of what anyone else says, he’s a world-class player. Fernandes is one of the best at creating chances, and his work rate is unquestioned.

Look at the FA Cup game against Fulham, for example. He not only patrolled the entire field, but his goal gave hope. It was an exquisite finish that few others in the world would be able to put away.

Unfortunately for Old Trafford faithful, the levels have dropped. And complacency has set in throughout the operation of MUFC. Ruben Amorim knows this, as well as the coach on the field.

They can’t control the managerial aspects. But their match-to-match preparation and play are well within their hands. So when others fall short of the mark, it needs to be addressed. Fernandes’ job is to lead by example and vocally. Professional football isn’t a place to be concerned about how the message is coming across or the harshness.

Too many excused the poor play for too long. This is what Amorim sees as well. Changes to personnel and matchday inclusions indicate a manager searching for answers. But he knows what he will get from Fernandes on a daily basis.

Man Utd manager defending captain

This is why Amorim made it a point in his latest press conference to make his stance on his captain clear. He graciously did so while extending Keane the respect the former Man Utd player is due. But he’s sticking up for the current player wearing the armband.

In reality, the others need to step up. Drawing inspiration and matching the outward passion would benefit everyone. Fernandes needs to set the tone on the pitch. And he unquestionably does so. Additionally, he backs up his demands through his effort and play.

10 players consistently fighting through any obstacles in their way can only lead to success. Many only look at someone shouting. Instead, look and assess why such a strong reaction is needed in the first place. Man Utd is a long way off. However, Fernandes deserves praise for paving the way back in his role.