The Portuguese magnifico dragged United to win against the Premier League’s bottom team, ever-so-slightly relieving pressure on his manager.
Where would Manchester United be without the talent of Bruno Fernandes? Possibly in the relegation zone, alongside Sheffield United. The Red Devils skipper led his dysfunctional side to their first league victory in five games with an inspiring display against the Blades, capped by a spectacular long-range strike.
The effort, made with his weaker foot, gave United the lead for the first time in a tortuous match against the Premier League’s worst team, which had twice taken the lead until Fernandes snatched the game by the scruff of the neck.
United had made a powerful but lifeless start, but fell behind after Andre Onana’s poor pass was intercepted by Jayden Bogle. Harry Maguire equalised for United, but the Blades, who triumphed 2-1 at Old Trafford three years ago, retook the lead in the second half via Chile international Ben Brereton-Diaz.
Maguire came to United’s rescue again, earning a penalty that Fernandes converted into the upper left corner. The Portuguese then hit the opposite corner with a spectacular drive, before United’s talisman set up Rasmus Hojlund for their fourth goal. Even this chaotic, wild bunch couldn’t let this one slip.
Andre Onana (3/10) is a goalkeeper and defensive player.
He got United off to a bad start with his awful pass, and his confidence was shattered for the remainder of the game.
Diogo Dalot (4/10):
Could have done more to prevent Bogle’s goal, but let down by Onana’s pass. I squandered an excellent opportunity by taking too long to shoot.
Casemiro (7/10):
Much improved from his sluggish recent performances, he makes crunching tackles and reads the game well.
Harry Maguire 7/10:
An excellent effort against his boyhood club, causing havoc in the opposition’s box while comfortably defending his own.
Aaron Wan-Bissaka (6/10):
A comfortable performance to regain confidence following his disappointing effort against Coventry.
Christian Eriksen (5/10):
They played well with the ball but were not convincing without it, losing Brereton-Diaz for the Chilean goal and being beaten too readily in midfield.
Kobby Mainoo (6/10):
Had numerous brilliant moments of play, taking responsibility both offensively and defensively.
Bruno Fernandes (9/10):
Talismanic, both in how he motivated the team with his body language and in how he elevated his game, scoring a truly amazing goal with his weaker foot.
Alejandro Garnacho, Manchester United 2023-24Getty Images
Attack: Alejandro Garnacho (6/10).
Despite having to come off against Coventry, they ran hard. Set up Maguire’s goal, but squandered several decent opportunities.
Rasmus Hojlund(6/10):
Held the ball well, was unimpressive in front of goal, but persevered and scored for the first time in two months.
Anthony (4/10):
Slow, imprecise, and continually miscuing. Another disappointing display after another forgettable week for the Brazilian.
Amad Diallo Erik Ten Hag Manchester United 2023-24Getty Images
Subs and Manager: Amad Diallo (6/10)
A significant improvement over the hapless Antony.
Scott McTominay (6/10):
Even though he did not directly contribute to the victory, he did help to disturb the Blades’ defence.
Ethan Wheatley (n/a):
He made his senior debut in additional time the day after leading the Under-18s to cup victory over Manchester City. Got involved in the play and was close to scoring.
Sofyan Amrabat (n/a):
Brought on in extra time.
Erik Ten Hag (5/10):
His modifications helped win the game, but Fernandes was the true reason. It’s unclear why he keeps starting Antony.