(Credit: Getty Images/Imago)

Aasif Rahman

Sat 15 March 2025 17:54, UK

Paul Pogba sent a strong message to Bruno Fernandes following the midfielder’s outstanding display in Manchester United’s latest Europa League victory.

Man United bounced back from the frustration of a 1-1 draw with Real Sociedad by securing a dominant 4-1 win in the second leg, booking their place in the quarter-finals.

Fernandes was at the heart of the performance, delivering a hat-trick while Diogo Dalot added a well-taken goal to round off the victory.

However, the game wasn’t without controversy, as United were awarded two penalties—both converted by their captain. Former PGMOL chief Keith Hackett told Football Insider that Patrick Dorgu appeared to go down too easily for the second penalty, sparking debate over the decision.

Club legend Rio Ferdinand was quick to send a message of praise to Fernandes after his brilliant display, but it wasn’t just former pundits taking notice, as Pogba also made sure to acknowledge United’s skipper.

Bruno Fernandes cements his place as the Europa League’s most prolific player

Following his hat-trick, it was revealed that Fernandes now holds the record for the most goal involvements in Europa League history, with an impressive tally of 24 goals and 17 assists.

Reacting to the achievement, former teammate Pogba took to the comments to praise the Portuguese star, simply writing: “Legend” alongside an applause emoji.

The United captain has been in outstanding form this season, featuring in 43 matches, scoring 15 goals, and registering 13 assists across 3,718 minutes of play.

After the victory, Fernandes shared a message with Man United fans, and Pogba’s words will no doubt bring back nostalgic memories of their midfield partnership.

Man United fans call for Paul Pogba return under Ruben Amorim

Pogba has been out of action for the past 18 months, serving a ban following a positive drugs test while playing for Juventus. Though he is now a free agent, and the Frenchman is eligible to return to professional football for the first time since September 2023.

Man United fans are calling for the club to bring Pogba back with the news he is available on a free transfer, with hopes of a potential reunion alongside Fernandes under Ruben Amorim.

Pogba has previously hinted at a return to Man United, posting a cartoon image of himself alongside United starlet Amad on social media earlier this year. However, whether a comeback is truly on the cards remains to be seen.