Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has revealed that club captain Bruno Fernandes is already agitating for a return to action, despite being ruled out of the team's final fixture of 2025.
Fernandes' Leadership Shines Through Injury
The 31-year-old Portuguese midfielder sustained a soft tissue injury during the match at Aston Villa on December 21st. He initially played on but was substituted at half-time. The issue forced him to watch from the stands as his teammates secured a hard-fought 1-0 Boxing Day victory over Newcastle United at Old Trafford.
Amorim, speaking ahead of Tuesday's Premier League home game against Wolverhampton Wanderers, made Fernandes' immediate status perfectly clear. "No chance he is going to play against Wolves. No chance," the manager stated emphatically. However, he highlighted the skipper's undimmed influence, joking that his dedication might hint at managerial ambitions.
"He's the guy that is watching the training. Even after treatment, he's going there," Amorim said. "I don't know if he wants my job or not, but he's a leader. The guy is a leader." He praised Fernandes for remaining a vocal presence while sidelined and for routinely observing training sessions during his recovery periods.
Mounting Absences Force Tactical Rethink
Fernandes is not the only concern for Amorim. Mason Mount was being assessed after being withdrawn at half-time against Newcastle. The squad is further depleted by the injuries of Kobbie Mainoo, Harry Maguire, and Matthijs de Ligt, while Amad Diallo, Bryan Mbeumo, and Noussair Mazraoui are away at the Africa Cup of Nations.
This injury crisis compelled Amorim to deviate from his preferred five-defender system against Newcastle, opting instead for a back four. The 40-year-old coach, who took charge in November 2024, had previously been staunch in his commitment to building a tactical identity. He explained this strategic flexibility as a sign of the team's development.
"We don't have a lot of players, we need to adapt," Amorim admitted. "It is not because of the pressure... of the fans. It's because now we understand the way we want to play and the principles are the same." He argued that this adaptability would make United a stronger unit once the full squad is available, as they will not be solely reliant on one formation.
Looking Ahead to Wolves and Beyond
With Fernandes definitively out and several other key players missing, United face a challenging end to a turbulent calendar year against Wolves. Amorim's comments suggest the team will continue with a pragmatic approach, adapting to the resources available.
The manager's insight into Fernandes' mindset offers United fans a positive sign regarding the captain's commitment and recovery drive. While his on-field presence will be missed in the immediate term, his off-field leadership, as described by Amorim, continues to be a cornerstone for the squad during a difficult period.
