Football

Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes celebrated his 250th appearance for the club in style, scoring a brilliant solo goal and inspiring his team to a 2-0 victory over Leicester City in the Premier League on Sunday, November 10, 2024.Fernandes, who was presented with a framed shirt before kick-off at Old Trafford, marked the milestone with a stunning individual effort in the 17th minute. The Portuguese international received a back-heel pass from Amad Diallo and unleashed a curling low shot past Leicester goalkeeper Mads Hermansen.The goal sparked wild celebrations from the home fans, who chanted "Bruno" as Fernandes was congratulated by his teammates. The Portugal international has now scored 84 goals in all competitions since joining United from Sporting Lisbon in 2020.Fernandes doubled United's lead in the 38th minute with a deflected effort off Victor Kristiansen. The goal was initially credited to Kristiansen as an own goal, but it was later confirmed that Fernandes had gotten the final touch.The victory extended United's unbeaten run under interim head coach Ruud van Nistelrooy to four games. The Dutchman has been in charge since former manager Erik ten Hag was fired last month.Van Nistelrooy was pleased with his team's performance, particularly Fernandes' contribution. "Bruno is a special player," said Van Nistelrooy. "He's a leader on and off the pitch, and he always gives 100%. He's a joy to work with."Fernandes was equally delighted with the win and his personal milestone. "It's an honor to play for this club," said Fernandes. "I'm proud to have made 250 appearances for Manchester United. I hope to continue playing here for many years to come."United will next face Fulham in the Premier League on Saturday, November 17.

Erik ten Hag's Manchester United endured a rollercoaster ride in their Europa League clash with Porto, salvaging a 3-3 draw thanks to a late Harry Maguire equalizer. The result came amidst mounting pressure on Ten Hag, whose team has struggled in the Premier League this season.Ten Hag's plea for patience until the end of the season highlights the challenges he faces. Despite winning the League Cup and FA Cup in his first two seasons, United's poor start to the current campaign has raised concerns. The Red Devils languish in 13th place in the Premier League and have drawn their opening two Europa League games.The match in Porto started brightly for United, with Marcus Rashford and Rasmus Hojlund giving them a 2-0 lead within 20 minutes. However, Porto fought back with goals from Pepe and Samu Omorodion before halftime. Omorodion put the home side ahead early in the second half, and United's woes were compounded by Bruno Fernandes' red card.Maguire's header from a corner rescued a point for Ten Hag, but the performance raised questions about United's defensive solidity. The English giants have failed to win any of their last four away European games despite scoring three times in each of them.Ten Hag acknowledged the need for improvement, stating, "We will get there, don't judge us in this moment. Judge us in the end of the season. We will improve, we have two seasons where we achieved finals. Just wait, we will develop and progress this team."Maguire, who has lost his starting spot to Matthijs de Ligt, defended his manager, saying, "When you go on a bad spell players come under pressure and also the manager does. He's experienced enough and been at this club long enough so I'm sure he knows how to deal with it."The upcoming international break could provide a crucial opportunity for Ten Hag to reassess his team's performance and prepare for the challenges ahead. United's next match is against Aston Villa in the Premier League on Sunday.

Manchester United's struggles continued as they were held to a 3-3 draw by Porto in the Europa League on Thursday, October 3, 2024. Despite taking an early 2-0 lead, Erik ten Hag's team conceded three goals and saw Bruno Fernandes sent off for the second consecutive game.United started brightly, with Christian Eriksen setting up Marcus Rashford for the opening goal in the seventh minute. Eriksen was also involved in the second goal, finding Rashford who assisted Rasmus Højlund for a powerful strike.However, Porto responded with two goals in quick succession from Pepê and Samu to level the score before halftime. After the break, Samu scored again to give Porto the lead, but United fought back with a late equalizer from substitute Harry Maguire in the first minute of injury time.Fernandes' red card in the 81st minute for a high boot on Nehuen Perez compounded United's misery. The Portuguese midfielder had also been sent off in a 3-0 loss to Tottenham in the Premier League on Sunday.Ten Hag expressed frustration with his team's performance, saying, "We started the game very good, we dominated, we scored two good goals but then we lost control. The middle part was no good and then we finished very good. ... We got the equalizer so it is good for the spirit."The draw leaves United with two draws in the Europa League group stage and without a win in their last four games in all competitions. They will face Omonia Nicosia in their next Europa League match on October 13.

Manchester United's talismanic midfielder, Bruno Fernandes, has extended his stay at Old Trafford until June 2027, signaling his unwavering commitment to the club. The Portuguese maestro has been a pivotal figure for the Red Devils since his arrival in January 2020, amassing an impressive tally of 79 goals in 234 appearances.Fernandes' new contract, which includes an option for a further year, is a testament to his exceptional contributions and the club's belief in his abilities. The 29-year-old has played a key role in United's recent resurgence, helping them secure the FA Cup last season and guiding them to a promising start under new manager Erik ten Hag."Everybody knows the passion I have for Manchester United," Fernandes declared. "I understand the responsibility and significance of wearing this shirt, and the levels of dedication and desire required to represent this incredible club."Fernandes' unwavering loyalty to United is evident in his words: "I have had so many special moments here already... But I wouldn't have signed this contract if I didn't believe that my best moments in a United shirt are still to come."The Portuguese international's new deal is a major boost for ten Hag's team, which has already witnessed the arrivals of Leny Yoro, Joshua Zirkzee, Matthijs de Ligt, and Noussair Mazraoui this summer. United will be hoping to build on their FA Cup triumph and improve upon their eighth-place finish in the Premier League last season.Fernandes' presence in the midfield will be crucial for United's aspirations. His exceptional vision, passing range, and goalscoring prowess make him a formidable force on the pitch. With his leadership and determination, he will undoubtedly continue to inspire his teammates and drive the club towards success.

Manchester United's talismanic captain, Bruno Fernandes, is poised to become the club's highest-paid player after agreeing to a lucrative new contract extension. The Portuguese maestro, who has been the subject of intense transfer speculation this summer, is set to sign a deal that will keep him at Old Trafford until June 2027, with an option to extend for a further year.Fernandes's new contract, which is expected to be announced imminently, will reportedly see him earn a staggering £250,000 per week, eclipsing the current top earner, David de Gea. The 28-year-old has been a transformative figure for United since his arrival from Sporting CP in January 2020, inspiring a resurgence in the club's fortunes.In 233 appearances for the Red Devils, Fernandes has amassed an impressive tally of 79 goals and 66 assists, establishing himself as one of the most influential midfielders in the Premier League. His leadership qualities and creative brilliance have made him a fan favorite and a key component of Erik ten Hag's rebuilding project.Despite United's disappointing Community Shield defeat to Manchester City on Saturday, the club has been active in the transfer market, bolstering their defensive options with the signings of Matthijs de Ligt and Noussair Mazraoui from Bayern Munich. The departures of Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Andreas Pereira have also freed up space in the squad for new arrivals.Ten Hag has acknowledged the need for further reinforcements, particularly in defense, and has hinted at more transfer activity in the coming weeks. The Dutchman is keen to build a squad capable of challenging for major honors and believes that Fernandes's long-term commitment is a significant step in that direction.

Portugal secured their place in the last 16 of Euro 2024 with a dominant 3-0 victory over Turkey on Saturday. Bernardo Silva's early strike, a comical own goal by Samet Akaydin, and Bruno Fernandes's second-half tap-in sealed the win for the reigning European champions.Portugal's star-studded lineup, led by Cristiano Ronaldo, showcased their class against a spirited but limited Turkey side. Silva's composed finish in the 21st minute set the tone for the match, while Akaydin's unfortunate own goal just minutes later doubled Portugal's lead.Ronaldo, who is aiming to become the oldest goalscorer in European Championship history, played a pivotal role in Portugal's victory. He unselfishly set up Fernandes for a simple goal in the 56th minute, demonstrating his enduring quality and leadership.Portugal's victory was a testament to their depth and experience. Despite the absence of key players such as Ruben Dias and Joao Felix, Fernando Santos's side controlled the game from start to finish. They will now face one of the four best third-place finishers in the next round, while Turkey must beat the Czech Republic to secure second place in Group F.The match was played in front of a passionate Turkish crowd at the Westfalenstadion in Dortmund. Despite the result, the Turkish fans remained vocal and supportive throughout the game. Their enthusiasm created a vibrant atmosphere, but it was Portugal who ultimately proved too strong.

Manchester United's struggles continued as they were held to a 2-2 draw by a spirited Bournemouth side at Old Trafford. Despite fielding a strong lineup, United looked sluggish and disjointed from the outset, allowing Bournemouth to take the initiative.Bournemouth's attacking intent was evident from the opening whistle, and their pressure paid off in the 16th minute when Will Kambwala's slip allowed Dominic Solanke to fire home from close range. United's defense looked shaky throughout the first half, with Bournemouth creating several more chances.However, against the run of play, Bruno Fernandes equalized for United in the 31st minute. Garnacho's cross deflected off a defender and fell to Fernandes, who slotted it into the net. Bournemouth responded quickly, with Dango Ouattara and Justin Kluivert scoring in quick succession to restore their lead.United's profligacy in front of goal continued in the second half, with Fernandes hitting the crossbar from a promising position. Bournemouth also had their chances, but they were unable to capitalize on their dominance.A controversial penalty awarded to United in the 62nd minute, after the ball appeared to hit Adam Smith's arm, allowed Fernandes to level the score once again. Bournemouth continued to press for a winner, but their efforts were thwarted by a combination of poor finishing and resolute defending from United.In the dying minutes of extra time, Bournemouth were awarded a penalty, but VAR intervened to overturn the decision, ruling that the foul occurred just outside the penalty area. The stadium erupted in protest, but the decision stood, ensuring a share of the spoils for both teams.

Manchester United's Champions League aspirations received a much-needed boost as they secured a crucial 2-0 victory over Everton at Old Trafford on Saturday. The win snapped a two-game losing streak in the Premier League and moved United within three points of fifth-placed Tottenham Hotspur.Bruno Fernandes opened the scoring from the penalty spot in the 12th minute after Alejandro Garnacho was brought down by James Tarkowski. Fernandes then handed over penalty duties to Marcus Rashford, who doubled the lead in the 36th minute after Garnacho was fouled by Ben Godfrey.United dominated the first half, with Garnacho causing constant problems for the Everton defense. The Argentine winger won both penalties and was a constant threat with his pace and skill. Everton improved in the second half but failed to create any clear-cut chances, with most of their shots coming from long range.The victory was a welcome relief for United manager Erik ten Hag, who had seen his team lose to Fulham and Manchester City in their previous two league matches. The win keeps United in contention for a top-four finish and a place in next season's Champions League.Everton, meanwhile, remain five points clear of the relegation zone but will be concerned by their lack of attacking threat. Manager Sean Dyche will need to find a way to get more goals from his team if they are to avoid a relegation battle.