Portugal Boss Roberto Martinez Blasts 'Unfair' Criticism of Bruno Fernandes at Manchester United
Portugal national team manager Roberto Martinez has launched a passionate defence of Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes, describing much of the criticism directed at the midfielder as "very unfairly assessed." The 31-year-old Portuguese international has frequently been targeted for his emotional displays on the pitch, but Martinez believes this character trait has been completely misunderstood.
'Very Emotional But Very Respectful'
Speaking on The Overlap podcast with former United defender Gary Neville, Martinez provided detailed insight into Fernandes' leadership qualities. "I think he's very unfairly assessed," Martinez stated emphatically. "To be the captain of Manchester United in the last three or four years, I bet it's been incredibly tough at every level."
The Portugal manager highlighted what he considers Fernandes' most valuable attribute: "What I appreciate from him is that he never hides. He never hides. I'm not going to value if he makes the right pass or the right execution, but whatever happens, in any action, he's back."
Martinez was particularly keen to distinguish Fernandes' emotional responses from those of other players. "He's very emotional, but in a very respectful way by his team-mates," he explained. "When his team-mates see that Bruno is upset, they react. They know that that's something. It's not like he's an emotional player who just has emotions for emotions."
Emotion With Purpose
When pressed by Neville about whether Fernandes' emotional nature was actually beneficial, Martinez provided a nuanced response. "This emotion is for a reason," he clarified. "There are players who are emotional because that's the way they cope with it. That's completely different. I think that can affect other players. When Bruno reacts emotionally it's because there is something that's not right and it's almost a message to somebody."
Martinez emphasized Fernandes' reliability and commitment to his teammates. "He looks after every player. He would never ever let anyone down. But what I appreciate is the consistency. Last season, he was the player with the most minutes in Europe. If you are the captain of Manchester United, in a tough period, it's difficult to be available all the time and always be there. I think that's what Bruno has done."
Impressive Statistics Amid Criticism
Fernandes' contributions to Manchester United have been statistically remarkable despite the persistent criticism. The midfielder has registered 104 goals and 99 assists across 316 appearances for the club since his arrival from Sporting Lisbon. This season alone, he has contributed six goals and 13 assists in 26 appearances across all competitions.
These numbers become even more impressive considering Fernandes spent the opening two-thirds of the campaign playing in a deeper midfield role under former manager Ruben Amorim. Since Michael Carrick took over as interim manager, Fernandes has featured in every single minute of action, recording four assists and one goal during this period.
Future Uncertainty
The Portuguese international's future at Old Trafford remains uncertain, with Fernandes having entered the final 18 months of his contract. The midfielder has acknowledged he came close to relocating to Saudi Arabia last summer, a move that would have deprived United of their captain during a crucial period.
Martinez, who will oversee Fernandes at this summer's World Cup, clearly values the midfielder's leadership qualities and hopes the criticism will be reassessed. "He's the one, he's the leader," Martinez concluded, suggesting that Fernandes' emotional responses serve a specific purpose in motivating his teammates and addressing issues within the squad.
As Manchester United continue their push for a top-four Premier League finish under interim manager Michael Carrick, Fernandes' contributions both statistically and as a leader remain vital to their success, despite what his national team manager considers unjustified criticism of his emotional approach to the game.
