Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has been praised for his role in shaping the club's future by mentoring young players. The 31-year-old midfielder has left a lasting impression on academy starlets breaking into the first-team setup.
Fernandes' Impact on Youngsters
The Portugal international has been a pivotal figure since arriving at United from Sporting CP in January 2020. Fernandes has consistently stood out as the team's top performer, netting 106 goals and laying on 105 assists in 322 appearances.
United have faced some tough spells during the midfielder's tenure at the club. Yet he has still played his part in delivering silverware, lifting the FA Cup and League Cup, as well as reaching two Europa League finals.
The skipper is unequivocal about his desire to keep chasing major trophies during his remaining time at United as he nears the final 12 months of his current contract. Yet Fernandes is equally mindful of his role in helping young team-mates develop, with 18-year-old academy talents Jim Thwaites and Dan Armer highlighting the captain's eagerness to support those called up to first-team training.
Youngsters Speak Out
"All of them are really good to be fair," Thwaites told the Daily Mail when discussing the senior squad. "Obviously, the ones that stand out for me are Bruno [Fernandes] and [Lisandro] Martinez is really good, too. They are the main two I would say, but as a whole they're really good with the lads.
"[Fernandes will] take you to one side on the side of the pitch and have a word with you and make sure you're alright. Also, on the pitch, he will encourage you and let you know that the standard here is the standard you should be aspiring to get to; but also helping you to get to that level. Both on and off the pitch it really helps."
Academy defender Armer added: "He would just like make a joke of you trying to help you and stuff like that and just like help you feel a bit more relaxed around the group."
Thwaites, who was involved in his first Premier League matchday squad against Chelsea last weekend, and Armer were speaking ahead of the U18 Premier League Cup final. United fell to Crystal Palace in a penalty shootout on Wednesday night, though Darren Fletcher's side can still look forward to the FA Youth Cup final against Manchester City.
Academy Success This Season
It has been a fruitful campaign for United's academy. Shea Lacey and Jack Fletcher both made their debuts against Aston Villa in December, while Tyler Fletcher and Bendito Mantato have also been handed first-team opportunities this term.
The fact that Fernandes provides guidance and assists youngsters in settling into the first-team setup can only help the club's academy prospects in reaching their full potential. It also underlines his commitment to United's future success.
The skipper showcased his leadership qualities when speaking about United's young post-season tour squad last year. He said: "They've always been training with us, most of them, so we know what to expect from them and we all know the academy is always creating young and exciting players."
United boss Michael Carrick has had to lean on academy players as he manages a depleted squad. The 44-year-old will no doubt value Fernandes' contribution in helping to bring those players seamlessly into the first-team fold.
