Ruben Amorim’s time at Manchester United has been an eventful one so far.
The Portuguese tactician replaced Erik ten Hag back in November last year, and his appointment raised the excitement levels at Old Trafford.
Amorim led United to a win against Manchester City, a draw against Liverpool, and they even knocked Arsenal out of the FA Cup.
However, the Red Devils are 14th in the Premier League, and it is looking increasingly likely that they will finish in the bottom half of the table.
That is not a good look at all, but Amorim does deserve some praise at Manchester United for bringing the best out of a few players.
Troy Deeney highlights Bruno Fernandes’ character change under Ruben Amorim
Bruno Fernandes is Manchester United’s best player by a distance.
The Portugal international has been immense for the Red Devils over the years, and he has gone up a level this season, so much so that United would’ve been in a relegation battle without him.
Fernandes has scored 12 goals and provided 13 assists in all competitions so far this term. 14 of those 25 direct goal contributions have come under Amorim.
The last of which was against Arsenal on Sunday – Fernandes scored a terrific free-kick to give United the lead just before half-time.
Deeney named the Manchester United star in his Team of the Week and claimed that Fernandes’ character has changed since Ten Hag was sacked and Amorim replaced him.
He wrote on BBC Sport: “I have been critical of Fernandes over the years. He is the type of person that got away with it when the team were poor under Erik ten Hag.
“Since the new manager has come in, he has shown a completely new level of character.
“If Manchester United want to get to where they aspire to be, then they need this guy. They cannot get rid of him. It was also unbelievable technique for the free-kick.”
Bruno Fernandes’ stats under Ten Hag and Amorim compared
Fernandes’ quality is unquestionable.
The 30-year-old is one of the best players in the Premier League, and on his day, he can win games on his own for Manchester United.
But, it has to be said that his numbers are better under Amorim than they were under Ten Hag.
| Games | Goals | Assists | Minutes per goal or assist | |
| Bruno Fernandes under Erik tan Hag | 120 | 29 | 32 | 172 |
| Bruno Fernandes under Ruben Amorim | 25 | 8 | 6 | 159.1 |
Under Amorim, Fernandes averages a direct goal contribution more often than he did when Ten Hag was the manager.
What makes it even more impressive is the fact that most United players haven’t even adapted to their new manager’s tactics – yet, Fernandes is delivering great numbers.
Manchester United’s hopes of success this season – winning the Europa League – largely depend on Fernandes. If anyone can carry them in the competition, it’s him.
