Bruno Fernandes is more than grateful to Erik ten Hag for the trust he has received from the Dutchman. Not only as a player, but also as the second captain, behind Harry Maguire.
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Fernandes is often praised in England for the impact he has had at Old Trafford, but there has also been criticism, including for his 'overly emotional' behavior. The criticism was particularly intense after United's 7-0 defeat to Liverpool on March 5th of this year. Out of frustration, he pushed an assistant referee during that match. Calls were made to strip him of the captain's armband, but Ten Hag wanted nothing to do with it.
In the lead-up to the FA Cup final, Fernandes reflected on that challenging period in the season. 'I feel that he is very pleased with how I train, how I play, and the way I show my passion. He understands how involved I am. That sometimes leads me to do things I shouldn't,' said the attacking midfielder to BBC.
Fernandes is grateful for how Ten Hag always defended him publicly: 'I will never do anything that is detrimental to the team or my teammates. He knows that, that's why he defends me. He shows that he protects you, but always with an expectation. When you defend someone, you also expect something in return, so you have a reason to protect that person.' Fernandes reveals that he was called into Ten Hag's office two or three times this season to discuss what needed to change. To the playmaker's delight, everything discussed remained confidential.
Ten Hag's first season at United will end on Saturday afternoon with the FA Cup final against Manchester City. FA Cup victory should mark the end of a positive season for United, according to Fernandes, not a successful one. 'For success, at this club, winning the Premier League or the Champions League is expected. That's because of the club's great history.'
Updated: 12:23, 3 Jun 2023
