Man United could hold secret key to Bruno Fernandes contract extension after Ruben Amorim exit
Bruno Fernandes may yet have more life in him as rumours swirl around the star’s future at Old Trafford.
Al Hilal were ready to pay £100million for Fernandes during the summer transfer window, with the 31-year-old possibly entering into the twilight of his Premier League career.
Ruben Amorim has now been sacked by Man United, and it was the Portuguese boss who was playing him in a much deeper role this season, alongside 33-year-old Casemiro.
It has been a decision that has baffled many, and given that the star playmaker only has five goals and seven assists this term, a far cry from his usual numbers, he does not appear to be enjoying himself.
Bruno Fernandes continues to be linked with a Man United exit
While Fernandes is currently out injured, his positioning in the team could change drastically, whether Darren Fletcher is still the interim manager or a different figure has been appointed.
According to The Athletic (6 January), former boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is the leading candidate to take over at Old Trafford, with Ruud van Nistelrooy amongst those in the frame this month.
Although Solsjkaer’s time with the Red Devils ultimately came to a disappointing end, being replaced by Ralf Rangnick in 2021, the former player remains a much-loved figure amongst the supporters.
As well as being loved by the fans, he also holds a special place in Fernandes‘ heart, having played a vital role in bringing the superstar to the club in January of 2020 [Sky Sports].
Why Ole Gunnar Solskjaer can unlock the real Fernandes
Supporters are desperate, not just for someone to help the player rediscover his previous form, but also to persuade that the Red Devils need Fernandes for even longer than his current contract.
The veteran always spoke glowingly about Solskjaer, even publicly shutting down rumours of a falling out during their time together, and the two could reconnect when United need it the most.
To showcase just how incredible he was under the Norwegian, Fernandes has yet to match his numbers from the 2020-21 campaign, when he notched 28 goals and 18 assists in 58 appearances.
While he has come close to that, no manager has managed to help him recreate those numbers. If Solskjaer can get him firing in the second half of the season, it might be the key to getting Fernandes to put pen to paper on a new deal.