Bruno Fernandes: 7 Ways Manchester United Can Cope Without Injured Playmaker

Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim is facing a selection dilemma following the injury to talisman Bruno Fernandes but how can he replace him?

Manchester United are facing a significant challenge for the first time since 2020: a spell without their talismanic captain, Bruno Fernandes.

Manager Ruben Amorim has confirmed that Fernandes will miss "some games" after sustaining an injury in the recent 2-1 defeat to Aston Villa.

Fernandes, an ever-present figure since his arrival, was substituted at halftime after pulling up late in the first half. Amorim later clarified that the captain suffered soft tissue damage, a major blow for the Red Devils as they head into a crucial and congested fixture period.

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The 31-year-old's immense value to the team is well-documented, but Amorim and his staff must now find a way to fill the creative void in midfield. Here are some of the potential options at the manager's disposal.

Is it Mainoo's Moment to Shine?

For many Manchester United supporters, this injury presents a golden opportunity for Kobbie Mainoo to stake his claim. After a breakout period that saw him score the winning goal in the 2024 FA Cup final and earn a spot in England's European Championship squad, the young midfielder has surprisingly not started a single Premier League match this season.

This lack of game time has fueled speculation about a potential loan or permanent move away from Old Trafford. However, Fernandes's absence has unexpectedly opened a door. Amorim, who has previously stated that Mainoo is competing directly with the club captain for a spot, is now unlikely to let the academy graduate leave in January.

Unfortunately, Mainoo's chance won't come immediately. Amorim confirmed he is nursing a calf injury that also kept him out of the Villa match, meaning he will miss the upcoming clash with Newcastle. He will be hoping another player doesn't seize the opportunity before he gets his own.

Could Mount Drop into a Deeper Role?

Mason Mount has started United's last three Premier League games, a run he has only bettered once since joining the club. He has been operating in a more advanced role on the right, filling in for the absent Bryan Mbeumo.

However, Mount has extensive experience playing deeper in midfield and could form an effective partnership alongside the less mobile Casemiro, making him an able deputy for Fernandes. The trade-off, of course, is that moving him from the attack would create another selection headache for Amorim, especially with Amad Diallo also unavailable. The manager may decide that Mount's pressing from the front is too valuable to sacrifice.

Martinez: A Midfield Alternative?

When Fernandes was forced off at Villa Park, it was Lisandro Martinez who came on to fill the midfield gap. "In the first half they were by far the better team," commented Gary Neville. "Surprisingly, I thought with Martinez in midfield in the second half, they were the equal of Villa as a minimum."

While primarily a centre-back, Martinez is no stranger to a midfield role, having been deployed there at times during his Ajax career. In 22 appearances as a number six, he demonstrated impressive passing statistics and defensive solidity, excelling in tackles, interceptions, and winning possession.

Martinez would not offer the same creative spark as Fernandes, but his ability to recycle the ball and provide defensive structure could bring a different kind of balance to the team. His versatility gives Amorim a valuable internal solution as United navigate a busy schedule without their captain.

A Chance for Ugarte to Step Up?

With Casemiro suspended for the Aston Villa match, Manuel Ugarte was given the chance to partner Fernandes in midfield but did little to cement his place. The Uruguayan international struggled to make an impact, failing to create chances or register a shot on target while also losing the most aerial duels in the game.

The defeat on Sunday marked a grim statistic for Ugarte, who has now been on the losing side in all of his last seven starts, raising questions about his ability to fill the void.

Switch to a Midfield Three

A noticeable tactical shift was evident in United's recent match against Aston Villa. Instead of the usual pressing front three supported by a double pivot, Amorim deployed a front two with a midfield triangle of Fernandes, Mason Mount, and Manuel Ugarte behind them.

This formation could become a more permanent solution, especially with Casemiro's eventual return. The Brazilian could anchor the midfield, allowing either Mount or Kobbie Mainoo to step into the advanced role typically occupied by Fernandes. This setup would also ensure Mount retains a key position, reflecting his growing influence on the team.

Further up the pitch, once Bryan Mbeumo returns from the Africa Cup of Nations, he could partner with Matheus Cunha, leaving Benjamin Sesko as a high-impact substitute while he continues to acclimate to the Premier League.

Give Youth a Chance

Fernandes's absence could open the door for one of Manchester United's promising young talents. Amorim has previously commented on the attitude of some youngsters, but circumstances may now force him to place his trust in them.

Jack Fletcher, son of the club's U18s lead coach Darren Fletcher, recently made his senior debut against Aston Villa and is widely regarded as a future star. His twin brother, Tyler, also a midfielder, might see this as his opportunity.

Other prospects include 18-year-old Jim Thwaites, who has been earning praise for his progress, and Sekou Kone, who has previously trained with the first team, though recent fitness issues could hinder his chances.

Address Ugarte's Form

Manuel Ugarte's recent performances have been a major concern. An eighth loss in nine games marks the longest winless streak for a starting Manchester United player in over two decades, a record previously held by Kleberson between 2004 and 2005.

The midfielder's hefty £50.7 million transfer fee has been heavily scrutinized, particularly when compared to the success of his predecessor, Scott McTominay. The Scotland international, who was sold for just £26 million, recently won the Italian Supercoppa with his new club and was named Serie A Player of the Year last month. While McTominay could have been an ideal solution, the player brought in to replace him has yet to justify his price tag and silence his critics.