3 ways how Bruno Fernandes can improve Manchester United this season

#1 Breaking down deep-lying defenses

Fernandes is a risk-taker in the final third

In Solskjaer’s own words, Fernandes is a player who can “see passes and play passes”. The midfielder has been phenomenal in the Portuguese league in the last couple of seasons and has created the most chances from short passes. Solskjaer has advised Fernandes to be his usual self in the Premier League, clearly indicating that United will need his creativity to address their biggest weakness this season.

The Red Devils have been impressive against teams who attack them but have failed miserably against sides who sit deep at the back. This is where Fernandes will be crucial for United. The Portuguese managed 10 passes into the box against Wolves, which was the highest among the United players in the game and also a huge upgrade from United’s previous crop of players. Juan Mata has managed the most average passes into the box per game this season in the United team – 6.2, while Pogba has managed just 4.0 passes into the box on an average.

Fernandes loves taking risks, an attribute that has been missing among United midfielders this season. However, United do need to be a lot more fluid and proactive in the final third for the player to have the desired effect on the pitch.

Fernandes will certainly improve United’s build-up play and make them a lot more dangerous on the pitch. He has a wide array of passes in his repertoire and has displayed stellar decision-making ability in the final third. That has enabled the Portuguese to become one of the most creative players in Europe in the last couple of seasons. It is an attribute that could power United ahead in the second half of the season.