"We were a bit lazy," Fernandes told NBC Sports after the friendly at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on 3/8. "You can't play with that mentality. We need to stay away from that, because a moment of carelessness can cost the team."

Bruno Fernandes applauds fans after Man Utd's 2-2 draw against Everton at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta, USA on 3/8. Photo: Premier League

In their final match of the summer tour in the US, Fernandes opened the scoring from the penalty spot before Iliman Ndiaye equalized for Everton in the first half. After the break, Mason Mount's curled right-footed shot put the Red Devils ahead once more. However, an own goal from young defender Ayden Heaven in the 75th minute cost Man Utd the win.

With 7 points, Man Utd still won the Summer Series, a friendly tournament initiated by the Premier League in the US. In the previous two matches, Ruben Amorim's team beat West Ham 2-1 and Bournemouth 4-1. However, Fernandes felt the draw against Everton made the US tour less than perfect. "This is an important period to develop our playing style and help the new players integrate," the Portuguese midfielder said. "But we didn't want to end it this way."

Bruno Fernandes (center), Matheus Cunha (right) and Bryan Mbeumo celebrate winning the 2025 Summer Series Cup. Photo: Telegraph

After a disastrous 2024-2025 season, finishing 15th - the club's lowest ever Premier League position - Man Utd signed Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo. Both new signings started against Everton. But Fernandes believes that's not enough. "I don't want to criticize anyone, but it's clear that this squad needs more competition, more quality so that everyone has to work harder if they want to start," the 30-year-old midfielder said. "Hopefully, the club will bring in one or two more players to help us improve."

Manager Ruben Amorim was not surprised by his compatriot's frank comments, saying he fully supports players being honest with each other to improve the team's culture. "I'm pleased that they feel this way," the Portuguese manager said. "It shows they understand the current situation. For me, that's a positive sign. We've had a few weeks working in a positive environment. Now it's time to return to Carrington and prepare for the season. We understand there's still a lot of work to do."

Manager Ruben Amorim gives instructions during the draw against Everton. Photo: Premier League

Regarding Fernandes' call for reinforcements, Amorim didn't disagree, but suggested that the current squad can also create internal competition. "A team can always be stronger with more players, but we also have the personnel to create competition," the 40-year-old manager said. "I'm happy with the current squad and believe we have a lot of potential to improve."

After concluding their US tour, Man Utd will return to England to prepare for their final friendly against Fiorentina at Old Trafford on 9/8. Eight days later, the Red Devils face Arsenal in their Premier League opener, also in Manchester.

Compiled by Hong Duy