Bruno Fernandes has acknowledged that he needs to improve his penalty-taking skills after facing challenges in that area this season. However, the captain of Manchester United emphasizes that he thrives under the pressure that comes with representing the club.
The typically dependable Portuguese midfielder has missed key penalties during United’s 1-1 draw against Fulham and their 3-1 loss to Brentford, contributing to the team’s rocky start in the Premier League.
“So far this season, I’ve missed two out of three penalties,” Fernandes stated at a news conference on Friday. “I don’t want to miss any. It’s something I need to analyze more closely. I always take them with full confidence, knowing my coach believes in me.”
Fernandes faced a setback when his penalty was saved by Brentford’s goalkeeper Caoimhín Kelleher in the match on September 27.
When asked if he looks forward to facing Kelleher again when Portugal plays against the Republic of Ireland on Saturday, Fernandes replied, “Every day presents an opportunity to even the score.”
“He was better that day, and I wasn’t at my best. However, that doesn’t affect my mindset. In football, the team’s success is more significant than individual battles. Winning is the priority over any personal vendetta against the Irish goalkeeper.”
Last weekend, United secured a 2-0 victory over Sunderland at Old Trafford, moving up to 10th place in the standings and relieving some pressure from coach Ruben Amorim.
After finishing 15th in the Premier League last season— their lowest rank since being relegated in 1974— and losing the Europa League final to Tottenham Hotspur, the team is eager to improve.
Fernandes, 31, stated that joining Portugal on international duty is not an escape from the pressures of playing for United.
“The two experiences are distinct,” he explained. “Here, I connect with home, speaking Portuguese and enjoying Portuguese cuisine. It feels good. But I also feel comfortable in Manchester, where I embrace the pressure. It signifies higher goals, and I enjoy taking on challenges.”
“Representing the national team is an honor, and I feel the same pressure whether I’m playing for Portugal or my club. The ultimate goal remains: to win.”
In his sixth full season with United, Fernandes declined a transfer to Al Hilal this summer to continue his journey at Old Trafford.
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The decision by Amorim to position Fernandes further back in midfield, rather than in his familiar No. 10 role, has sparked debate. Nonetheless, Fernandes sees advantages to both positions.
“I enjoy playing football, no matter where I’m positioned. I’ll give my best every time,” he stated. “Everyone has their preferred roles. In a team rich in quality, adapting is crucial. I have played in varied positions under [coach] Jorge Jesus at Sporting. Viewing the game from the front helps find spaces and reduces risk.”
“As a No. 10, the objective is to create plays and score. I adapt according to the team’s needs. The most important aspect is winning, and I want to perform my best.”
Portugal has started strong in their World Cup qualifying campaign, winning their first two matches and currently leading Group F.