BREAKING NEWS: live from Old Trafford, FC Porto boss Vitor Bruno has warned his players that they should not give space to Manchester United’s star. He believes that he can trouble them if he has time on the ball. He said, during that teams training today my players told me we need to play defense cause of only this particular man united player. He brings havoc and terror to opposition team and cause of him we have to change tactics.” “We cannot give him space” – Porto manager identifies danger man in Manchester United team ahead of Europa League showdown.

FC Porto manager Vitor Bruno has issued a firm warning to his players before their match against Manchester United, highlighting the need to restrict Bruno Fernandes’ space. Bruno stressed that the Portuguese midfielder can greatly affect the game if given time on the ball.

In a press conference leading up to the Thursday night matchup, Vitor Bruno conveyed his view that Fernandes could be a major threat if not adequately marked. He noted that Fernandes possesses the capability to alter the outcome of a match and addressed the recent debate over the player’s red card against Tottenham Hotspur.

Discussing Fernandes’ dismissal in the Spurs game, Vitor Bruno remarked, “I don’t think his red card was justified at all. He is a very, very good player with immense quality. He’s also an international player and having played for Sporting, I’m sure he’ll be eager to deliver a great performance tomorrow.”

Vitor Bruno further detailed his tactical strategy for neutralizing Fernandes, stressing the importance of limiting his space and impact on the match. “We need to stay alert, control him, and not allow him to play the way he prefers. Whether it’s his passing, his ability to create chances, or his skill in dribbling and shooting, we can’t afford to give him any space,” he added.

The Porto manager is evidently cautious about Fernandes’ creativity, particularly regarding how the Manchester United star can deliver dangerous crosses and create scoring chances. Bruno urged his players to remain vigilant in containing Fernandes and preventing him from dictating the play.

Shifting his focus to Manchester United’s head coach Erik ten Hag, Vitor Bruno praised his counterpart and referenced a tradition of post-match camaraderie. He mentioned Carlos Carvalhal, a Portuguese manager with experience in the Premier League and Championship, highlighting how Carvalhal often shared a drink with opposing managers after games. “If Ten Hag wants, the dressing room is open for him. We can continue that tradition,” Bruno quipped.

Both FC Porto and Manchester United have faced difficulties in their Europa League campaigns this season. Porto lost to FK Bodø/Glimt, while Manchester United managed only a draw against FC Twente. This upcoming match is crucial for both teams as they seek to regain their form in the tournament.

In the meantime, Erik ten Hag has expressed his support for Bruno Fernandes despite his inconsistent performances this season. Speaking ahead of Manchester United’s match against Tottenham, Ten Hag expressed confidence in Fernandes’ potential to return to his best form. “I think he is capable, and he has already proven himself many times in the Premier League. He creates many chances, and I’m convinced that he will continue to do so. He’ll score goals and deliver those final passes; it’s just a matter of time,” Ten Hag stated.

These comments from the Manchester United manager come after Fernandes’ red card for a high challenge on James Maddison during the Tottenham match. Although the initial decision was a setback for United, the FA later rescinded the red card, allowing Fernandes to participate in the club’s upcoming domestic fixtures.

Ten Hag’s faith in Fernandes underscores the midfielder’s significance in his plans, despite the recent criticism. With his manager’s backing, Fernandes will aim to make a substantial impact in the next matches, particularly the crucial encounter against FC Porto.

As Manchester United gears up for their next Europa League match, all eyes will be on Fernandes to see how he handles the pressure and whether he can aid his team in overcoming their current challenges. Similarly, FC Porto will strive to implement Vitor Bruno’s tactical approach to limit Fernandes, ensuring he does not become the game-changer he is capable of being.
FC Porto manager Vitor Bruno has highlighted Bruno Fernandes as a key threat ahead of their Europa League clash with Manchester United. In his press conference, Vitor Bruno emphasized the importance of restricting Fernandes’ space to neutralize his influence, acknowledging the Portuguese midfielder’s creativity, passing, and ability to dictate the play. Bruno was particularly wary of Fernandes’ capacity to deliver dangerous crosses and create chances if given time on the ball.

He also weighed in on the recent controversy surrounding Fernandes’ red card against Tottenham Hotspur, expressing his disagreement with the decision and praising Fernandes’ immense quality. Reflecting on the potential impact Fernandes could have, Vitor Bruno stressed that Porto must remain vigilant and disciplined to prevent him from controlling the game.

Vitor Bruno also took the opportunity to praise Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag, offering a cordial gesture to continue the tradition of post-match camaraderie between managers. Meanwhile, Ten Hag has reaffirmed his support for Fernandes despite his inconsistent performances this season, showing confidence in the player’s ability to bounce back and make an impact in upcoming matches.

With both teams needing a win after underwhelming results in their previous Europa League games, the upcoming match promises to be pivotal. Porto’s approach to limiting Fernandes could be central to their hopes of securing a result, while Manchester United will be looking to Fernandes to lead their recovery in the tournament.