Ever since Ruben Amorim walked through the doors at Old Trafford, there’s been one question on the minds of Manchester United fans can Bruno Fernandes fit into the new system? For years, Bruno has been United’s heartbeat, the player who made things happen when nothing else worked. But under Amorim, the game has changed, and so has Bruno’s role.
Softfootball understands that Amorim’s Manchester United is built around structure, control, and tactical discipline a far cry from the chaotic freedom Bruno once thrived on. The Portuguese coach has asked his captain to play deeper, to dictate play and manage tempo rather than constantly push forward looking for the killer pass. For a player who loves to take risks, that’s like asking an artist to paint inside the lines.
There have been moments where it’s looked like a struggle. Bruno’s influence in the final third has dipped in some games, and at times, United’s attack has lacked its usual spark. But it’s also unfair to say he’s failing to adapt. The recent 2-0 win over Sunderland was a good reminder of that Bruno was at the heart of everything good about United’s performance. His passing, movement, and leadership in midfield kept the team ticking, showing exactly why he remains indispensable.
For Amorim, the pressure is real. A few shaky results earlier in the season raised eyebrows, and some fans have already started to question whether his tactical ideas will work in the Premier League. But inside the club, the mood is calmer. The United hierarchy are standing firmly by him, convinced that his vision just needs time. They see signs of progress the improved structure, the cleaner transitions, the growing confidence and believe Amorim is the right man to lead the rebuild.
So, is Bruno struggling? Maybe not struggling just adjusting. He’s learning to be more measured, to pick his moments, to find influence in new areas of the pitch. It’s not the all-action Bruno we’re used to, but it’s a version that could make both him and United more complete in the long run.
Interestingly, Manchester United return to premier league action this weekend and the are up against arch rivals Liverpool who have been on a poor run of form recently, United via their official X handle confirmed that their focus has shifted to anfield as they look to build on the momentum from Sunderland win, United will hope that Captain Bruno Fernandes can inspire the team to a famous win at anfield since the last victory 11 years ago. They posted;
Adaptation takes time, and Bruno Fernandes has never been one to shy away from a challenge. If Amorim can fine-tune his system to unleash Bruno’s creativity without sacrificing control, this partnership might just become the foundation of United’s next big era and not a sign of decline.
