Bruno Fernandes’ unyielding drive and commitment to Manchester United seem to have no bounds.
After yet another standout performance, where he netted twice to help United secure a 3-0 win over Athletic Bilbao, the midfielder opened up about his relentless mindset.
Despite being urged by Sporting Lisbon manager Ruben Amorim to take things easy, Fernandes has made it clear that he’s not ready to slow down anytime soon.
In fact, the 50-year-old United captain’s response was stark and bold—he’ll only “relax” when he’s no longer alive.
A Relentless Spirit
Fernandes’ commitment to his craft was on full display as he scored two goals against Athletic Bilbao in the Europa League, putting his team on the cusp of reaching the final.
The win brought United one step closer to securing a spot in next season’s Champions League.
His ongoing form has been incredible, contributing a staggering 37 goals this season, and it’s hard to imagine where the Red Devils would be without him.
With an impeccable fitness record, Fernandes has barely missed a game since joining United in 2020 for a hefty £68 million fee.
Speaking after his triumph in Spain, Fernandes explained that his coach Amorim has asked him to ease off, but the player’s answer was clear: he only plans to rest when he’s “in the grave.”
“I feel pressure with every penalty, and that’s part of the beauty of football.
We have to enjoy it,” he shared with TNT Sports. “When my career ends, I’ll be more relaxed.
But for now, I just keep pushing.”
Controversy and Penalties: Fernandes Hits a Brace
The match against Bilbao wasn’t without controversy. Fernandes’ first goal came from a penalty kick, following a contentious VAR decision.
Dani Vivian was penalized for pulling down Rasmus Hojlund, and though the Spanish side felt aggrieved by what they perceived as a handball by United’s Alejandro Garnacho leading up to the penalty, the referee’s decision stood.
Vivian was sent off for the foul on Hojlund, making it a tough pill for Bilbao to swallow.
Inaki Williams, a key player for Bilbao, expressed his frustration, saying, “The penalty decision came after what I thought was a handball by Garnacho.
At that point, it was too late, and the game got away from us.”
However, despite the protests, Manchester United showed their quality on the field.
After Casemiro gave them the lead with a brilliant header, Fernandes sealed the victory with another clinical strike, helping United assert their dominance.
Europa League Final in Sight for Manchester United
With this victory, United have one foot firmly planted in the Europa League final.
They’ll likely face Tottenham, who took a 3-1 advantage against Bodo/Glimt, though the Norwegian side has been formidable at home, and the tie is far from over.
“We’re not done yet,” said United’s manager, Erik ten Hag.
“We have one more match to play, but we’ve put ourselves in a strong position.”
Amorim’s Confidence in the Second Leg
Sporting’s manager Ruben Amorim, meanwhile, has stressed that his side must stay focused despite the comfortable lead.
“No one expected this result, but we need to be ready for the second leg.
It’s not over, and we can’t take anything for granted,” he said, adding that the first 20 minutes of the next game would be critical.
With the second leg to be played at Old Trafford, Amorim’s side is in the driving seat, but there’s a long road ahead.
Bilbao’s Anger Over Refereeing Decisions
Athletic Bilbao’s head coach Ernesto Valverde was visibly upset after the controversial decisions, particularly the red card handed to Dani Vivian.
“It’s a huge punishment. We were not only down 2-0 but also a man short.
We felt the handball by Garnacho should have been called, but it’s the referee’s job to make those calls,” Valverde said, still angry over the outcome.
Though Bilbao fought hard, they couldn’t overcome the early setbacks, and now they face a challenging task to turn the tie around at Old Trafford.