Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes defended his teammates against criticism from co-owner Jim Ratcliffe, who claimed some players are “overpaid.” Ratcliffe praised Fernandes for his hat-trick in a recent win over Real Sociedad, highlighting expensive signings like Casemiro and Onana as burdens for the club. Fernandes expressed disappointment at the criticism but emphasized that individual contracts are negotiated with the club. Despite a challenging season, he remains committed to the team, having rejected an offer to leave last summer. He acknowledged criticism from former captain Roy Keane and aims to prove his worth, acknowledging the need for improvement.
Bruno Fernandes, the captain of Manchester United, responded to comments from co-owner Jim Ratcliffe, who suggested that some players are “overpaid,” clarifying that the contracts were agreed upon by the club. Ratcliffe praised Fernandes but criticized some members of the squad as “not good enough” in various media interviews this week. Demonstrating his leadership, Fernandes scored a hat-trick in Thursday’s 4-1 victory against Real Sociedad, securing a spot in the Europa League quarter-finals. He defended his teammates after Ratcliffe pointed out the costly signings of Casemiro, Rasmus Hojlund, and Andre Onana as burdens the club is still managing.
“At this club, we cannot afford to relax. There is a high standard and significant media attention,” Fernandes stated.
“Hearing certain criticisms is unpleasant. No player enjoys being told they’re not good enough or receiving allegations about being overpaid.”
“Each player has their own contract, which the club negotiates based on when they arrive or renew their terms. It’s about proving your worth and how you can contribute to the club.”
Currently, the Europa League represents United’s only chance to salvage a disappointing season.
Ruben Amorim’s team is positioned 13th in the Premier League and has exited both domestic cup tournaments.
Fernandes disclosed that he had the opportunity to leave Old Trafford last summer but expressed his commitment to winning more trophies as captain.
“I met with the club because there was an offer for me, and we discussed whether I should stay or leave,” he shared. “I asked if they still viewed me as part of the club’s future. I also had a talk with (former manager, Erik) Ten Hag.”
“He assured me that the club believed I would play a significant role in this rebuilding process. I was optimistic about our potential for success.”
Although Fernandes has been the standout player with 15 goals this season, he has faced criticism from past captain Roy Keane.
Keane recently remarked that the 30-year-old is “not a fighter” and stated that “talent alone is insufficient.”
Fernandes acknowledged his admiration for the former Irish midfielder, who claimed 13 major trophies with United, and expressed his intent to change Keane’s perspective.
“I aim to perform on the field to alter his opinion and demonstrate what I can contribute,” Fernandes noted.
Amorim commented that his team “needs more players like Bruno” to regain their former success.
Out of Fernandes’ 15 goals this season, six have been scored in the last six matches.
“He is essential for this team. His contributions are evident in the statistics and his recent performances; he often finds the net,” Amorim remarked.
“Playing for this team entails facing criticism. I understand that former players, having achieved great success, often have elevated expectations, viewing circumstances in stark terms.”
“However, life is rarely black and white; there are nuances to consider,” he added. “Bruno consistently gives his best effort, and I take pride in coaching a player of his caliber.”
(This story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
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