Bruno Fernandes' new position at MU under Ruben Amorim

Bruno Fernandes, one of Manchester United’s brightest stars in recent years, is having to adapt to a new tactical system under coach Ruben Amorim. Despite signs of a decline in form in the 2024-2025 season, Fernandes still possesses the skills that fit the philosophy of the new Portuguese captain.

Fernandes' creativity

Since joining Man Utd in 2020, Bruno Fernandes has proven himself to be one of the most important players, contributing 155 goals and assists for the team. He has created 344 chances in the Premier League since the 2021-2022 season, the most in the league, with his excellent passing ability. However, this season, Fernandes has not maintained his previous form, with only five assists and no goals in the first 13 games of the season.

Under interim manager Van Nistelrooy, Fernandes has enjoyed a remarkable resurgence, scoring four goals and providing two assists in his last four games. However, with Ruben Amorim officially taking over, the question is how to get Fernandes to maximise his potential in the 3-4-3 formation that the manager favours.

In this formation, Amorim often asks the wingers to move into the middle, which leaves players like Marcus Rashford or Alejandro Garnacho as the main options for attacking positions. Therefore, it will not be easy for Fernandes to maintain the free role he has often occupied in the past. However, with his creativity and versatility, Fernandes can still take on the No. 10 position, moving behind the striker to develop his strengths.

Fernandes' strengths in Amorim tactics

Although Amorim’s 3-4-3 system requires mobility and a focus on defense, Fernandes still possesses the characteristics that suit this tactic. He is not only a creative player but also very effective at applying pressure on opponents. Fernandes has made 378 pressures, including 26 in the final third, helping Man Utd win the ball back in decisive situations.

Fernandes’ through-ball ability is also a key element of his game. In previous seasons, he was one of the leaders in terms of key passes, which still fits well into Amorim’s attacking system, which requires quick and precise through-balls.

Necessary adjustments from coach Amorim

According to expert Alex Keble, coach Amorim will need to make reasonable tactical adjustments to take full advantage of Fernandes' potential. The Portuguese midfielder's versatility, along with his ability to create chances and apply pressure, will be an important key to help Man Utd play effectively in the coming period. However, whether Fernandes can maintain his position and role in Amorim's 3-4-3 formation will be a big question.

Despite the challenge of adapting to a new tactical system, Fernandes remains one of the players who can make the biggest difference on the pitch. In the first few games under Amorim, keeping Fernandes in the team was a key decision to maintain the team's attacking prowess.

Under Ruben Amorim, Manchester United will see a change in style of play. However, with Bruno Fernandes’ creativity and ability to dictate the game, the team can hope for a promising season. Whether Fernandes can regain his peak form, and whether Amorim can get the most out of him, will be crucial to the Red Devils’ success in the coming period.