Bruno Fernandes has buried any doubts about his qualities in the last 12 months. He’s not just Manchester United’s best player, but has set himself apart from most of the league’s top players bar Erling Haaland. Breaking the assist record last season and winning the PFA Player of the Season has certainly elevated his status in the game, and the hat-trick this weekend was a reminder that Fernandes’ best days are far from done.
Football is a team sport, but there’s plenty of evidence suggesting that
certain players can will their sides to a league title. Mohammed Salah managed this two seasons ago for Liverpool, and Robin van Persie did the same when United last won a league title. Now, one could argue that this takes away from the contribution of their teammates, but there’s perhaps a better argument in suggesting that in seasons where an individual sets themselves apart, the league itself is not at its strongest with respect to the quality of players.
In the two examples mentioned above, this certainly played a part. Of course, United fans in 2013 and Liverpool fans in 2024 didn’t care too much about the strength of the league while celebrating a Championship, but it begs the question: can Fernandes do the same for United this season?
Arsenal are a good team, but nothing like the teams from the past who’ve defended their title. Manchester City, on the other hand, have been a competitive outfit for the last two seasons despite suffering a dip, but without Pep Guardiola, there’s an opportunity for someone else. Chelsea will see an opportunity this season, and so should United.
Fernandes is not going to score hat-tricks regularly, and United aren’t this well-oiled machine, but in a season where we’re unlikely to see one, playing to the strengths of one of the best players in the league isn’t the worst idea. However one feels about the quality of United’s squad, it seems pretty well-suited to allow Fernandes to cause havoc. That might just be enough this season.
