As Manchester United’s home match against Ipswich Town neared its end, ominous dark clouds gathered overhead, unleashing a torrential downpour.
Thunder and lightning accompanied the heavy rain, leading to the expected images of water streaming into the stadium through a leak in the roof.
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This dramatic weather seemed a perfect metaphor for a challenging afternoon for the Old Trafford side.
However, the situation ultimately turned out well for United, thanks in large part to captain Bruno Fernandes.
On a day when Marcus Rashford made his first Premier League start since December 2024 and Kobbie Mainoo joined Michael Carrick’s starting XI, it was Fernandes who stole the spotlight.
His hat-trick in United’s 5-2 victory ensured it was a day devoted to him.
“What else can I say?” remarked head coach Carrick.
“We’ve spoken a lot about him already, and I’ve only been here six or seven months.”
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For Fernandes, the season began poorly, as he struggled during a surprising 2-0 defeat at Hull City.
Things took a positive turn on Tuesday, when he received the PFA Players’ Player of the Year award, a recognition of his significant role in helping United return to the Champions League after a two-year hiatus.
Last season, he achieved a Premier League record of 21 assists.
Before theIpswich match, he entered the pitch accompanied by the sons of PC Matthew Blades, who was tragically killed in a recent head-on collision on the A66 near Middlesbrough.
When the match kicked off, Fernandes initially went unnoticed as the home side fell behind to Gary O’Neil’s team.
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Yet, when the chance arose, Fernandes made his mark.
First, the 31-year-old blasted in a stunning equalizer after Marcelino Nunez made a mistake, allowing Matheus Cunha to create a clear opportunity for his captain.
Fernandes later showed his composure by converting a penalty in front of the Stretford End to extend the lead to 3-1 after an hour. Given that he missed two penalties in pre-season, there was significant personal pressure attached to that kick.
He completed his third hat-trick for United just seven minutes later, although his efforts might have been eclipsed had he secured a remarkable 55-yard goal just after the restart, following Ipswich’s loss of possession.
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Goalkeeper Kjell Scherpen was caught off-guard and was relieved to see the ball sail over the net rather than into it.
“He means a lot,” noted Carrick when asked about Fernandes’ importance.
“He’s the captain, he’s been here for quite a while now, and he’s experienced an array of emotions. On days like today, we look to certain players for that extra spark, and he delivered exceptionally well.”
‘Bruno is essential for Man Utd’
However, there are complexities regarding Fernandes’ situation.
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As he enters the final year of his contract—United having the option to extend it for another year—interest from other European clubs, including Turkish side Galatasaray, shouldn’t lead to his departure this month. Nonetheless, he could justifiably argue for the top salary at the club, currently held by Rashford.
The thought of Fernandes moving on at 31 is unsettling for many United supporters.
“He is the heartbeat of Manchester United,” stated former United and England winger Ashley Young on Sky Sports. “There’s a reason he received player of the year honors from his peers, and performances like this prove why.
“He strives to be the best and to win. He is critical to this club. Without him, there would be a huge void in this team.”
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At the final whistle, Fernandes’ first instinct was to consult substitute Benjamin Sesko about a technical detail regarding a pass he attempted during injury time.
He then exchanged handshakes with rival players and officials and was heading off to greet more opponents when he suddenly remembered he had forgotten to retrieve the match ball, awarded for his hat-trick.
He quickly turned back, made a request, and referee Craig Pawson handed it over to him.
Without Fernandes’ contributions, Manchester United may well have struggled to secure the win—something that could be said for many matches over the past couple of years.
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“It was a crucial week, and concluding with a home victory today was significant,” Fernandes told BBC Sport.
“I mentioned before the game that some days you just feel it. This was one of those days when everything aligned, and you have to seize the moment.
“I despise losing, and it’s tough to maintain a positive outlook when facing defeat. Controlling my emotions is a challenge for me.
“At this club, you always want to be at your best.”