After making an astonishing recovery from the fastest two-goal deficit in Manchester United’s Premier League history, Erik ten Hag emphasized the intangible qualities his team exhibited in their 3-2 victory over Nottingham Forest on Saturday. The Dutch manager was keen to commend his team’s “spirit,” “energy,” “personality,” and “character.” These vague attributes are clearly exemplified by the team’s new permanent captain. However, Bruno Fernandes also delivers concrete results.
Fernandes not only scored but also created a goal in the match against Forest
For the 12th time in his Premier League career, Fernandes not only scored but also created a goal in the same match. Since his debut in the competition in February 2020, no other Premier League player can surpass Fernandes in this aspect.
Most Appearances in EPL with a Goal and Assist since February 2020
Earlier this week, Manchester City’s injured playmaker Kevin De Bruyne hailed Fernandes as “a creative machine.” The Belgian is also impressive, matching Fernandes with 12 Premier League appearances featuring both a goal and an assist in the same time frame.
The Belgian is also impressive, matching Fernandes with 12 Premier League appearances
Fernandes’ new teammate, Mason Mount, has registered an impressive seven instances of dual-threat displays but has yet to directly contribute to a goal since leaving Chelsea this summer.
Statistics correct as of 26 August 2023
Mount hasn’t quite clicked with Fernandes, forming a rather leaky midfield in front of an overworked Casemiro. Notably, Fernandes’ first standout performance of the season occurred while Mount was sidelined due to injury, allowing United’s captain to fully dictate his team’s offensive strategy.
Fernandes’ Stellar Performances against Nottm Forest
Before halftime, Christian Eriksen reduced the lead that Forest had quickly established within just three minutes and 47 seconds. Shortly after the break, Fernandes perplexed the visiting defense with a skillful set-piece maneuver.
Bruno was involved in all goals for the United
After sending a wide free-kick across to Marcus Rashford, Fernandes stealthily moved into the area, directing the ball down for Casemiro to equalize from close range. Over the past 36 months, Fernandes has created more chances (both overall and from open play) than any other Premier League player. With 15 minutes left in an exhilarating match, Rashford was brought down by Danilo, earning a penalty. Skipping his customary hop, Fernandes found the bottom corner to put United in the lead for the first time.
It’s a Fernandes’ moody performance
In the midst of a challenging week for the club, with Fernandes’ moody performance in the defeat to Tottenham Hotspur being the least of their concerns, Ten Hag showered his captain with praise. “He played an excellent game at the highest level in all aspects,” Ten Hag enthused. “He remained composed, controlling his emotions. He was outstanding in the attack and made the difference. I’m very pleased with his performance.”
The 12 Premier League appearances where Fernandes scored a goal and provided an assist
Interestingly, nine out of the 12 Premier League appearances where Fernandes scored a goal and provided an assist happened during his first year at the club. Prior to Saturday’s match against Forest, Fernandes’ last influential performance was 18 months earlier in a 4-2 triumph against Leeds United.