Brilliant Bruno Shines for Portugal
Bruno Fernandes continues to excel for his country, playing a key role in Portugal’s latest victory as they edge closer to securing qualification for next year’s European Championship. The Manchester United midfielder, a mainstay in Roberto Martinez’s squad, has consistently justified his place in the team with top-notch performances, delivering every time he dons the national colours. Since being appointed Manchester United captain by Erik ten Hag over the summer—following Harry Maguire’s removal from the role—Fernandes has had a somewhat mixed start to the season at club level. However, his performances for Portugal have been nothing short of exceptional. This trend continued in their recent 3-2 win over Slovakia, where Fernandes was directly involved in two of his side’s three goals. He provided assists for Gonçalo Ramos’ opener and Cristiano Ronaldo’s second goal, which ultimately secured the victory.
Fernandes’ contributions in Portugal’s Euro 2024 qualifying campaign have been pivotal. The statistical website Squawka highlights Fernandes as the most creative player in the competition thus far, leading in both chances created and combined goals and assists. He has fashioned 29 chances for his teammates and tops the leaderboard for big chances created, with nine. His seven assists are also the highest in the qualifiers, underscoring his vital role in Portugal’s flawless campaign, which has seen them win all seven of their games. With Portugal now qualified for next summer’s tournament, Fernandes might be afforded a much-needed rest in the upcoming fixtures. Despite his heavy workload, both for club and country, Fernandes remains one of Erik ten Hag’s most influential players at Manchester United.
Manchester United Make Decision on McTominay’s Future
Manchester United face uncertainty over the futures of several players, with Scott McTominay being one of those whose position at the club has been under scrutiny. Following a mixed start to the season, McTominay’s place in Erik ten Hag’s plans seemed uncertain, particularly with several players ahead of him in the midfield pecking order. Heading into the recent summer transfer window, speculation was rife that McTominay could leave Old Trafford if the club secured a replacement. Both West Ham United and Newcastle United were reportedly interested in the Scotland international. However, it wasn’t until the final day of the transfer window that United signed Sofyan Amrabat, making any potential McTominay sale difficult to complete.
In the wake of McTominay’s late heroics against Brentford, where his two stoppage-time goals rescued a vital win for the Red Devils, it has now emerged that the club has decided against selling him in January. According to the Daily Star, Erik ten Hag has ruled out the possibility of McTominay leaving in the winter window, citing his increasing importance to the squad. McTominay is under contract until 2025, with United holding the option to extend his deal by a further year. This could see the midfielder remain at the club until 2026. With ongoing injury concerns surrounding other midfielders, including Mason Mount and Sofyan Amrabat, and Casemiro recently suffering an ankle injury during Brazil’s draw with Venezuela, McTominay’s role is set to grow even more prominent in the months ahead.