Bruno Fernandes was not included in the Portugal squad to face the Republic of Ireland in a crucial World Cup qualifier on Thursday evening sparking concerns among some Manchester United fans
Kieran Horn Digital Sports Journalist and Neil Docking
20:09, 13 Nov 2025Updated 20:09, 13 Nov 2025
Bruno Fernandes is missing for Portugal
View 2 Images
Bruno Fernandes is missing for Portugal(Image: Getty Images)
Bruno Fernandes was notably missing from Portugal's squad to face Ireland in a vital World Cup qualifier on Thursday evening.
Concerns about a possible injury to the Manchester United skipper initially arose, but his absence is actually down to suspension. During last month's 2-2 stalemate with Hungary, the midfielder accumulated enough yellow cards to trigger an automatic ban, ruling the Red Devils talisman out of this fixture.
Fernandes will undoubtedly be frustrated that he can't contribute as a win could secure Portugal's place at next summer's tournament. Missing out might actually benefit both Fernandes and United, with the Portuguese media voicing worries about him last month.
Renascenca reported that he displayed signs of "physical fatigue". Meanwhile, A Bola gave him a 6/10 rating, noting he didn't have much influence on proceedings: "He hit the post once in the second half, but that was perhaps the only time he managed to find space in the central corridor.
"For this reason, he often appeared close to the line, especially on the left, but without gaining any influence."
Bruno Fernandes has been in fine form for Manchester United
View 2 Images
Bruno Fernandes has been in fine form for Manchester United(Image: Simon Stacpoole/Offside, Offside via Getty Images)
While it's conceivable he's struggling physically given his heavy workload, there are no worries about an actual muscle injury, with his absence this evening known well in advance, reports the Manchester Evening News.
Ruben Amorim's deployment of Fernandes in a midfield role is crucial for United's ball progression and movement through the thirds. Although playing deeper has seen him less involved in goal-scoring, this is beginning to change.
Fernandes has provided an assist in three of United's last four matches, with contributions against Tottenham, Nottingham Forest and Liverpool.
He also played a key part in Bryan Mbeumo's fourth goal against Brighton, executing a brilliant dummy before the Cameroon international netted his second in the 4-2 victory.
At Anfield, it was Fernandes' excellent first-time cross that Harry Maguire converted, while Casemiro and Matthijs de Ligt have both scored from Fernandes' corners against Forest and Spurs respectively.
Despite missing the trip to Ireland, Fernandes will be keen to maintain his impressive form with the national team, as they face another match against Armenia in just a few days, which he will be available for.
Article continues below
This game comes eight days before United's next fixture, a Monday night clash with Everton at Old Trafford on November 24. Matches against Crystal Palace, West Ham United, Wolves and Bournemouth follow soon after.
Fernandes will undoubtedly be called upon in the attacking third during the festive period, as Amorim's side take on Aston Villa, Newcastle United, Wolves and Leeds United, all without Amad and Mbeumo due to AFCON commitments.