Bottom half of the Premier League, out of the FA Cup, and now relying on the Europa League to salvage the season, it goes without saying Manchester United have had a poor season.
However amidst a season of turmoil, three managers and injuries, club captain Bruno Fernandes has proven to be a diamond in the rough for Ruben Amorim’s Reds.
Widely regarded as the best post-Ferguson Manchester United signing, the Portuguese magnifico has topped metrics that few would have expected him to.
Bruno Fernandes displaying N’Golo Kante-esque qualities
Fernandes had been linked with a move away last summer, luckily for Man United fans though the 30-year-old has remained at Old Trafford and put together arguably his best-ever season in a Red Devils shirt.
Despite being known for his attacking prowess, goalscoring ability and creativity, it is clear that the midfielder has unlocked a different side to his game this campaign.
Though his ball-winning ability was never his most associated trait, he is now replicating an ability which mirrors that of Premier League legend N’Golo Kante.
Fernandes for example has won possession 182 times this season, more than any other player whilst also leading the league in terms of chances created (75).
How Bruno compares to Premier League midfielders
Not only has he managed an incredible 16 goals and 16 assists this season, but he has also outperformed some big names when it comes to winning back possession for his team.
The Portuguese international currently ranks above the likes of Moises Caicedo and Ryan Gravenberch, two players who are famed for their off-the-ball work and tackling ability.
| Player | Possession won |
| Bruno Fernandes | 182 |
| Moises Caicedo | 174 |
| Lewis Cook | 172 |
| Ryan Gravenberch | 166 |
| Elliot Anderson | 163 |
The proof is really in the pudding for Fernandes.
With the likes of Casemiro and Eriksen unlikely to have a long term future at the club, Manchester United will look to bolster their midfield to allow their maestro to continue to deliver.
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