Rio Ferdinand has stepped up to defend Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes, praising the midfielder’s impact and dismissing calls for his sale. Speaking on his podcast shared on the official X account, Ferdinand highlighted Fernandes’ record-breaking achievement of surpassing Paul Scholes to reach fourth place in Premier League assists for the club.
This milestone places Bruno just behind legends like David Beckham, Ryan Giggs, and Wayne Rooney. Even while operating in a deeper holding role under manager Ruben Amorim, Ferdinand insists Bruno’s creativity and influence remain elite, a view echoed in SoftFootball’s coverage of his evolving role alongside Casemiro at United.
Ferdinand emphasised that questions about Bruno’s importance overlook his consistency and vision.
Ferdinand said:
I’ve seen some people talk about him and go, oh, they’d be better off without him and blah, blah, blah. I’m like, are you crazy?
He added:
He’s only behind Becks, Giggs and Rooney. The guy’s playing in a holding midfielder’s role and still creating more than anyone on the pitch. When I see him questioned, it just makes me sit there and go, what are you, you don’t know football.
SoftFootball recently noted Fernandes’ recent reaffirmation of loyalty to Manchester United, dismissing Saudi transfer links and underlining his commitment to the club.
The former England defender also compared Bruno’s situation to United’s past. He reminded fans of the decision to move on from Ruud van Nistelrooy years ago, which eventually paved the way for stars like Cristiano Ronaldo, Rooney, and Louis Saha.
Ferdinand asked, stressing the lack of a viable alternative in the current squad:
Who have we got coming in to replace Bruno?
His comments reflect the growing debate among fans, some of whom have criticised Bruno despite his remarkable output over the years.
Supporters on social media quickly voiced their defence of Bruno, aiming to highlight his influence and counter critics. Many praised his ability to create chances despite underperforming teammates, while others emphasised his unmatched quality in a natural number 10 role.
Sherps (@waleclef) wrote:
Absolutely spot on Rio. How he managed to record so much assists with sh!tty forwards over the years is astonishing.
Id said this countless times that no united legend would have significantly improved this current crop of players the way Bruno has done over the years.
ISHMAEL (@ishmael_idriss) added:
I’ve said it before and I’ll continue with it! If Bruno plays his natural role as number 10. No player in Europe match up with him. Everyone knows is frustrating to relay on him at central midfield. Unknown fanbase thought he’s done.
Bruno’s leadership and impact continue to show on the pitch. SoftFootball also highlighted his 300th appearance for Manchester United, where he led the team to victory over Brighton, demonstrating why he remains central to United’s ambitions.
Ferdinand and fans alike argue that Fernandes’ creativity, vision, and consistency make him irreplaceable, with his partnership with Amorim and Casemiro expected to drive United’s push for domestic and European success.
