Nobody can underestimate Bruno Fernandes’ influence on the current Manchester United team, even after a turbulent campaign.
Manchester United have struggled since the beginning of the season. Erik ten Hag was given a contract extension last summer but was sacked before Halloween.
Ruud van Nistelrooy became interim manager for four matches, in which United showed minor improvements, but was eventually replaced by Ruben Amorim in November.
There wasn’t an upturn in results like Ineos would have imagined when they made Amorim head coach, although United kept their unbeaten record in Europe to reach the Europa League final, which takes place next Wednesday.
Only five players are in contention to win United’s Player of the Year award and Ineos have decided not to hold an end-of-season ceremony. Instead, United’s first team will be gifted a barbecue at Carrington.
Photo by OLI SCARFF/AFP via Getty Images
Photo by OLI SCARFF/AFP via Getty Images
Patrice Evra warns Manchester United against selling Bruno Fernandes
One of the main contenders for the Manchester United Player of the Year award is Bruno Fernandes, who is looking to win the accolade for a fourth time.
However, the mood around United is not quite what it should be. Ineos want to make four key signings in the summer but financial restraints mean they must sell players to make that happen.
It would help United’s spending power if they were to go on and win the Europa League final, but otherwise it could prove to be a tricky window for the club.
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It is understood that United could add to their frontline without selling players, but any extra recruits will depend on whether they can sell players deemed surplus to requirements.
Although Fernandes is the player who makes United tick, the Portuguese midfielder has been linked with a possible exit with rumours suggesting a big offer will come in from Saudi Arabia.
United have been warned against selling the team’s most productive players. He has scored 19 goals and assisted another 19 this season, which is incredible, and at 30, he still has plenty of time to offer more.
Former United left-back Patrice Evra has expressed his concern and pointed out that, without Fernandes, United would not have reached the Europa League final. The Frenchman also outlined three areas for the team to improve in the summer.
“We need more defenders, we need a proper striker, maybe some midfielder to support Bruno. I heard that in Saudi they could offer a lot of money to get Bruno, but I think it will be a mistake to let him go.
“People talk about his age… 30, no. He is the most important player in the team.”
🗣️ "He is the most important player in the team"
Patrice Evra admits that without Bruno Fernandes Manchester United could have been relegated from the Premier League this season. pic.twitter.com/iFWLh0aIst
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) May 13, 2025
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United would go backwards if they were to sell Fernandes this summer. Amorim cannot afford that next season.
What striker takes priority for Manchester United this summer?
Right at the top of United’s striker wishlist this summer is Ipswich Town forward Liam Delap.
The English striker has a bright future in the game and it is understood that United are leading the race for his signature.
United are also eyeing a move for Matheus Cunha to play in one of the number 10 positions, as Amorim looks to add goals to his team.
That will put pressure on Rasmus Hojlund to improve and there will be plenty of competition for places. That is, unless Hojlund is sold at the end of the season.