Manchester United’s top four hopes were handed an unexpected blow, as they could only manage a 1-1 draw against Newcastle United. Coming into the game, the Red Devils were heavy favourites, as they had picked up some solid momentum following the departure of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer as manager. On the other hand, the Magpies have struggled badly this season and are firmly in the relegation zone.
The game did not turn out as most would have imagined though. In fact, Newcastle United could have easily won if not for some incredible goalkeeping from David de Gea.
The result was not the only blow that Manchester United were handed in this game though. They suffered one surrounding their Portuguese talisman, Bruno Fernandes, as well.
As reported by the Mirror, Fernandes will miss their next game, against Burnley, after he picked up a yellow card against Newcastle United. The Portuguese star was booked for dissent after he disputed a potential foul on De Gea.
Manchester United will be without Fernandes vs Burnley
Fernandes has been an ever present in Manchester United’s starting XI ever since joining the club back in January of 2020 and has arguably been the club’s best player during the course of that time.
Things have not gone his way this season though, as he has struggled to have the same impact that he had had for the past season-and-a-half for Manchester United.
The Portuguese star has especially struggled in domestic competition. According to stats from Transfermarkt, he has scored 5 goals and provided 3 assists in 17 Premier League appearances. Also worth remembering is that he scored a hattrick in the opening game against Leeds United and has found the back of the net just twice since then.
Thus, it is safe to say that he is not at the top of his game right now and one of Ralf Rangnick’s biggest tasks will be to get him playing his best football once again.