Bench or Back? Debating the Future of Manchester United’s Veteran Amid Heir Speculations
So far this season, there are concerns regarding Bruno Fernandes' contributions in the final third. Many fear that he is giving the ball away too cheaply, believing that this is holding back the Manchester United team. With him as Ten Hag's captain choice, one would expect him to start every game when 100%.
Calls for Bruno to be benched
Even so, on social media, some United fans are already questioning the Portuguese Magnifico's place in the team. Still, who would replace Bruno on the team if he was benched?
On a favourable day with everyone fit, United's best midfielder trio on paper this season is Bruno Fernandes, Kobbie Mainoo, and Manuel Ugarte. But with that said, what is Mason Mount's role on this team?
In the summer of 2023, Manchester United spent £60 million to sign Mason Mount. They could have easily waited a year to sign him on a free transfer, but they didn't because they were desperate for him. Ten Hag undoubtedly approved of the move, and he must have had a specific plan for the Englishman.
It is sad that injuries have held back the Englishman since joining United. However, could Mount be the answer to who plays in place of Bruno? The disadvantage is that removing Bruno and dropping the ex-Sporting CP star reduces Ten Hag team's work rate and creativity.
The United captain created the most chances in a 30-minute cameo appearance in the 7-0 victory over Barnsley (6). Aside from that, do you recall when he was subbed off against Brighton and the Seagulls equalised, with most of us blaming Ten Hag for taking him off? He's the engine of this team.
Erik ten Hag must decide whether to rest him or retain him on the team. The Portuguese international must also push to reclaim form, which he can accomplish by simplifying things. We've always known him as a pass master, so he can't keep losing the ball as much as he does (he ought to start playing the simple passes).
In any case, Mason Mount, who's back fit, may get a chance to join Ten Hag's team; whether he takes advantage of Bruno's struggles remains to be seen.
A Bruno heir lined up
Interestingly, rumour has it that Manchester United already knows who Bruno Fernandes' heir is. According to Caught Offside's Ekrem Konur, the Red Devils are interested in Oscar Gloukh, an RB Leipzig playmaker, as they prepare for life after Bruno. The objective is to bring the Israeli playmaker on board before the 30-year-old's form deteriorates further.
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