Bruno Fernandes’s high work rate not enough to prevent 2-0 loss to Arsenal
It was a difficult evening for Manchester United on Wednesday as they slumped to a 2-0 loss to Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium.
For much of the game, Manchester United were on the back foot against a considerably more united Arsenal squad.
It was evident that United were still trying to acclimate to life under new manager Ruben Amorim, particularly in terms of implementing his preferred 3-4-3 structure and in-game tactics.
While Amorim’s team maintained 49% possession, they were constantly under siege from the host team, who often limited them to their own final third.
What’s more, United only managed to take five shots the entire evening compared to Arsenal’s 14.
Still, captain Bruno Fernandes provided the team with some hope, taking an expert free kick near the end of the match in which he threaded a through ball to Antony who beat the defence and thumped a left-footed strike goalward, only for the keeper to save it.
Fernandes proved effective with the ball at his feet, taking 77 touches and completing 57 of 67 passes for an 85% passing accuracy.
He supplied two key passes while completing five of his 10 long balls. His only cross of the match successfully found its target.
Fernandes put in a great defensive display, rushing back to support his back line in an attempt to half the home team’s attack. He performed one clearance and two tackles while blocking one shot.
Physically, the United skipper struggled to keep up with his opponents winning just two of seven ground duels. He failed to win either of his aerial duels.
Perhaps Fernandes’ weakest aspect of play was his attacking performance. He produced zero shots on goal while also failing to attempt a single dribble.
What was clear from Fernandes’ and United’s performances alike is that they both appeared to be struggling to adapt to Amorim’s strategic approach. While Fernandes put in a high work rate and exhibited an impressive passing game, his performance was nowhere near its best in a match where United came across as the weaker side for the majority of the contest.
