Bruno Fernandes has reportedly been playing ‘through the pain barrier’ for Manchester United over the last couple of weeks.
It’s a revelation that’s certain to raise some eyebrows, given it could be doing their talisman more harm long-term.
Bruno Fernandes: What’s the latest?
While Fernandes is undoubtedly the one player United feel they can’t be without, that doesn’t mean he should continue starting each week when anyone else in his position would be rested.
Since the 2022/23 season, no player has created more open-play chances in the Premier League than Bruno Fernandes 🪄
(via @Squawka) pic.twitter.com/uzdu6BOq3X
— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) September 25, 2026
Manchester Evening News journalist Tyrone Marshall revealed yesterday that the Red Devils skipper ‘took a couple of heavy knocks’ during the side’s Champions League opener at home to Sabah on September 10.
Although United has established a three-goal lead by half-time – and extended it to four in the 68th minute – Fernandes played the full 90, which was a controversial decision in itself, given the Manchester derby was just three days later.
It’s said that the 32-year-old, according to ESPN’s Rob Dawson, was very nearly ruled out of the clash with Manchester City, as well as against Fulham on September 20. However, after passing late fitness tests, he again completed two full 90s.
Fernandes has played through injury in recent weeks
Fernandes did drop to the bench for the Carabao Cup tie that was wedged in between the two Premier League outings, but was brought on in the 73rd minute when Brighton and Hove Albion had completed their turnaround to make it 3-2 at Old Trafford.
Now, Marshall says that United are in ‘direct contact’ with Portugal to keep tabs on how their captain is faring after he was left out of the squad on Sunday.
Portugal manager Jorge Jesus revealed that Bruno Fernandes has been playing through pain and could miss the match against Norway:
“While in the game against Wales we came into it with practically all the players who were physically available, we came out of the Wales game with a… pic.twitter.com/0riGmXmR6w
— utdreport (@utdreport) September 27, 2026
It’s expected he will return to the fold for his nation’s upcoming matches against Denmark and Norway before travelling back to Carrington.
United have a whopping six games, two being in the Champions League, to prepare for throughout October.
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