Fernandes suffered a hamstring injury in Manchester United's 1-2 loss to Aston Villa in matchday 17 of the Premier League last weekend. Since joining Manchester United in 1/2020, the Portuguese midfielder has only missed one match in 3/2022 due to flu and two matches due to a knee injury in 5/2024.

Bruno Fernandes (white shirt) suffered an injury during Manchester United's 1-2 loss to Aston Villa in matchday 17 of the Premier League on 21/12. Photo: Reuters

During a press conference on 24/12, coach Ruben Amorim did not disclose a specific recovery timeline but confirmed Fernandes would miss the match against Newcastle on Boxing Day. He also emphasized the unique importance of his compatriot midfielder to the team's playing style.

"Bruno cannot be replaced", the Portuguese coach stated. "But I told the whole team that we need to look at the positive side. When Bruno is absent, many people must step up and take on more responsibility".

In the 292 matches across all competitions where Fernandes started, the Red Devils won 51.7%. This statistic drops to 45.2% when the 31-year-old midfielder is absent or comes on as a substitute. The disparity is even greater when focusing solely on the Premier League: 48.6% compared to 29.4%.

According to Amorim, Fernandes contributes not only with his creativity but also plays an organizational role in all set-piece situations. "He is the one who organizes the team, coordinating dead-ball plays. This is an opportunity for the entire team to realize that we cannot depend on one player for everything", the 40-year-old coach explained.

Coach Ruben Amorim (left) and Bruno Fernandes after Manchester United's loss to Tottenham in the Europa League final at San Mames Stadium, Bilbao, Spain on 21/5/2025. Photo: Reuters

Amorim considers the absence of Fernandes, along with Bryan Mbeumo and Amad Diallo – two players who have joined their national teams for the Africa Cup – in set-piece situations, a major blow. However, he expects other key players such as Lisandro Martinez and Luke Shaw to demonstrate clearer leadership qualities during this challenging period.

Regarding options to replace Fernandes in midfield, Amorim indicated that Manchester United might need to change its operational approach. "We have other players and may need to try different ways of playing", he said, while praising the performance of 18-year-old midfielder Jack Fletcher, son of former player Darren Fletcher, against Aston Villa. "Opportunities like this are important to give young players a chance to perform".

Despite acknowledging the team is facing several personnel issues, Amorim expressed confidence. "I believe Manchester United can win any match. Things are more difficult, but if we focus, we can win", he affirmed.

Last week, Fernandes caused a stir by revealing that Manchester United's board had considered selling him last summer, but lacked the resolve to go against Amorim's wishes. The Portuguese midfielder stated he felt hurt and saddened by how the situation was handled, especially as he had received an offer worth over 100 million USD from Saudi Arabian club Al Hilal.

Hong Duy (according to Sky Sports)