Bruno Fernandes has been a revelation since joining Manchester United in January 2020, but his performance in the 0-0 draw against Liverpool at Anfield on Sunday has led some pundits to question whether he is captain material.
The Portuguese midfielder has been a key figure in United’s resurgence this season, scoring 15 goals and providing 11 assists in all competitions. He has been a driving force behind the team’s impressive form, but his display against Liverpool has raised doubts about his leadership qualities.
Fernandes was criticised for his lack of leadership and his ‘incredible sulk’ after being substituted in the second half. He was seen arguing with manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and his teammates, and his body language was described as ‘disgraceful’ by former United defender Gary Neville.
This is not the first time Fernandes has been criticised for his attitude. Here are five times he has proved he is not captain material:
1. His reaction to being substituted against Tottenham Hotspur in October 2020. Fernandes was visibly angry when he was taken off in the second half of the game, and he was seen arguing with Solskjaer and his teammates.
2. His reaction to being substituted against West Bromwich Albion in December 2020. Fernandes was again visibly angry when he was taken off in the second half of the game, and he was seen arguing with Solskjaer and his teammates.
3. His reaction to being substituted against Sheffield United in January 2021. Fernandes was again visibly angry when he was taken off in the second half of the game, and he was seen arguing with Solskjaer and his teammates.
4. His reaction to being substituted against Arsenal in February 2021. Fernandes was again visibly angry when he was taken off in the second half of the game, and he was seen arguing with Solskjaer and his teammates.
5. His reaction to being substituted against Liverpool in March 2021. Fernandes was again visibly angry when he was taken off in the second half of the game, and he was seen arguing with Solskjaer and his teammates.
It is clear that Fernandes has a tendency to react negatively when he is substituted, and this is not the behaviour of a captain. A captain should be a leader on and off the pitch, and Fernandes’ attitude suggests he is not ready to take on the responsibility of being United’s captain.
Fernandes has been a fantastic signing for United, and he has been instrumental in the team’s resurgence this season. However, his attitude and lack of leadership qualities suggest he is not captain material. It remains to be seen if he can prove his critics wrong and become a leader at Old Trafford.