Amorim’s midfield reshuffle puts Bruno’s future in doubt
Bruno Fernandes’ Manchester United legacy speaks for itself: 100 goals and 91 assists in 304 matches, along with an FA Cup and League Cup since his £68m move from Sporting CP in 2020. Even in last season’s historically poor campaign, the captain produced 19 goals and 19 assists, numbers few Premier League midfielders can match.
But under new boss Ruben Amorim, Fernandes’ role has shifted. The arrivals of Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha have forced the 31-year-old into a deeper No.8 position, reducing his attacking licence. Although he has still contributed two goals and five assists in 14 games, he is no longer the creative heartbeat of the team.
That tactical change, according to former Barcelona star Gaizka Mendieta, could be the spark that pushes Fernandes to consider life away from Old Trafford and potentially towards Camp Nou.
“Barcelona fans would love him” – Mendieta backs LaLiga switch
Speaking to Goal, Mendieta suggested Amorim’s decision to reposition Fernandes may accelerate a blockbuster summer move to Barcelona.
He pointed to Ilkay Gundogan’s success in his thirties, insisting age is no barrier for a technical midfielder like Fernandes. More importantly, he warned that playing out of position could influence the captain’s mindset.
“Maybe the fact he’s not playing where he prefers could influence him. I cannot see why he couldn’t go to LaLiga, to Barca especially,” said Mendieta.
“Barcelona fans would love him, 100 per cent.”
The move would also reunite Fernandes with Marcus Rashford, currently thriving on loan at Barcelona and pushing for the club to activate his €30m (£26m) buy option.
A damaging Rashford repeat?
United already face backlash for allowing Rashford to rediscover his best form in Catalonia. Losing Fernandes, the same way displaced by managerial decisions and tempted by Barcelona’s project, would be a far bigger blow.
Bruno Fernandes previously sensed his transfer after Europa League.
Fernandes’ contract runs until 2027 with an option for 12 more months, but reports claim he may leave if a £57m (€65m) bid arrives. Saudi clubs remain keen, with Al-Nassr ready to offer huge wages to pair him with Cristiano Ronaldo, but Barcelona’s appeal is stronger for the midfielder’s style and ambition.
United plan midfield rebuild regardless
TEAMtalk reports United are already preparing for change, with Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson their top target and further midfield signings possible. Kobbie Mainoo has even been linked with Arsenal.
As the rebuild gathers pace, Fernandes’ future looks increasingly uncertain, and Amorim’s tactical choices may end up repeating the Rashford mistake on an even bigger scale.