As he has so often in recent years, Bruno Fernandes was Manchester United’s saviour once again on Thursday night.
The Portuguese midfielder delivered a sensational hat-trick to lead United to a 4-1 victory in the Europa League, securing their place in the quarter-finals.
Fernandes converted two penalties either side of half-time before capping off a sweeping counter-attack with a ruthless finish into the bottom corner.
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It was arguably United’s best performance under Ruben Amorim so far, with Joshua Zirkzee, Patrick Dorgu, and Casemiro also impressing.
However, as has so often been the case this season, Fernandes stood tall above his teammates with yet another match-winning display.
His latest heroics come amid criticism from ex-United players.
Club legend Roy Keane recently questioned his leadership on The Overlap.
The former captain insisted that talent alone was “not enough” when discussing Fernandes’ qualities as United’s skipper.
“Talent’s not enough to play for a big club!” 😡
Roy and Wrighty clash over Bruno Fernandes’ impact as Man Utd captain! 😳
Is this the most explosive moment in Stick to Football history? 👀 pic.twitter.com/vzSQNcRIWV
— The Overlap (@WeAreTheOverlap) February 27, 2025
Bruno Fernandes has his say on Roy Keane comments
After his hat-trick, Fernandes was asked about Keane’s comments and offered a measured response.
“No, everyone has an opinion and that’s fine,” Fernandes said.
“I can’t change the mind of people. Everything I have to do is go on the pitch and try to do the best I can for the club.”
Despite the criticism, Fernandes made sure to acknowledge Keane’s stature at the club.
“Roy Keane was an amazing captain for the club, one of the best as everyone says,” he added.
“I didn’t have the chance to see much from him, only the last few years, but he was a great player who won everything for the club.
“He’s massively respected from everyone and has all my respect.
“He has to give his opinion in a programme and this is what he thinks about me.”
Fernandes made it clear that he is not trying to mimic anyone, instead focusing on being the best captain he can be in his own way.
“What I’m doing on the pitch [is] to try to change his mind or trying to do something that he probably sees as a good thing,” Fernandes continued.
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“Obviously I do it in my own way, I don’t want to copy anyone.
“I try to be the best captain that I can for my teammates, I try to help everyone in the best way I can and know.”
He also showed a strong mentality when discussing the scrutiny that comes with playing for United.
“Criticism is going to be always part [of playing for United].
“It’s going to make me grow and understand that there’s still a long way to go.”
One can never predict how Roy Keane will react to developments at his former club.
However, after a hat-trick and a statement response, Fernandes could not have done much more to silence his critics.
Manchester United will now prepare to face Lyon in the Europa League quarter-finals next month.
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