November 3rd 2024.
Bruno Fernandes recently had a conversation with Erik ten Hag, his former manager, after the latter was sacked from Manchester United. The Portuguese midfielder expressed his regret and apologized for his underwhelming performances which may have played a role in the decision to let go of Ten Hag. The team's disappointing 2-1 loss to West Ham last weekend proved to be the final straw for Ten Hag, resulting in his dismissal on Monday. Manchester United swiftly announced Ruben Amorim as the new permanent manager, though interim coach Ruud van Nistelrooy will continue until the Portuguese coach takes over on November 11.
In their first match since Ten Hag's departure, Fernandes found the back of the net but his goal was not enough to secure a win as they settled for a draw against Old Trafford. After the game, the United captain reflected on his former boss and took responsibility for his lackluster performances leading up to the Dutchman's departure. "We all know that when a manager leaves, everyone is involved, but only one person ends up paying the price. It's easier to get rid of a manager than 15 players," Fernandes told Sky Sports. "I spoke to Ten Hag and apologized for not doing better under his guidance. I was disappointed to see him go and I tried to support him in any way I could."
The 27-year-old midfielder admitted that he felt responsible for the team's struggles in front of goal and took it upon himself to make things right. "I wasn't scoring as many goals as I usually do, and the team's overall performance was not up to par. As the captain, I feel responsible for that, but I always give 100% to help the team. I just hope Ten Hag knows that," Fernandes said.
However, former United captain Roy Keane had a different take on Fernandes' words. He felt that the midfielder's apology came too late and that he did not show enough leadership during Ten Hag's final months at the club. "It's too little, too late. You're judged by your performance on the pitch, and I don't think Bruno did enough in some of those games. He didn't show enough leadership, but it's time to move on," Keane stated during his analysis on Sky Sports.
Keane also expressed his disappointment with Fernandes' lack of leadership and support for his manager during tough times. "Some players don't really care that much and just focus on the next manager. I don't think Bruno, as the captain, did enough to help Ten Hag. His performances were not up to par when the going got tough, and I don't think he should be proud of himself in this situation. Ultimately, the players let the manager down," Keane added.
As Manchester United moves forward with a new manager, it remains to be seen if Fernandes can step up as a leader on and off the pitch to help the team reach their full potential.
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