Manchester United head into next season with the world's finest attacking midfielder in their ranks, a luxury they have not enjoyed since Cristiano Ronaldo's departure in 2009. Bruno Fernandes, the Portuguese playmaker, has established himself as the undisputed best No. 10 in world football, according to pundits and former players.
Roy Keane's Verdict on Fernandes
During Portugal's World Cup clash with Uzbekistan, Roy Keane declared Fernandes the best midfielder in the game. He said: "The best player in the world in these positions, I'm talking about Bruno here. You give him that time and space, his decision making, the weight, the pace of the pass. He is by far the best player in the world in that position. We've seen him do it for United constantly, there was no doubt he was going to pick the right pass."
Fernandes has been a talisman for United since his £47 million arrival in 2020. He has won the Sir Matt Busby Player of the Year award four times and made 327 appearances, contributing 215 goals and assists. Last season, he shattered the Premier League record for most assists in a single campaign with 21.
Comparison with Past United Greats
The last time United could boast a player who was unequivocally the best in his position was during Cristiano Ronaldo's first stint at Old Trafford. Ronaldo won the Ballon d'Or, three Premier League titles, and the Champions League before leaving for Real Madrid in 2009. Since then, other United stars have staked claims, but none without credible rivals.
Wayne Rooney once believed he was the world's best centre-forward. Speaking in 2022, he recalled: "At 18, thinking to myself I was the best player in the world... I believe at that time I was." However, his prime coincided with Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo's dominance. Similarly, David de Gea was hailed by Rooney as the best goalkeeper in 2014, but Manuel Neuer's achievements arguably matched or surpassed his.
Fernandes' Trophy Haul and Future
Fernandes has won the FA Cup and Carabao Cup with United, plus two Nations League titles with Portugal. He is now chasing a World Cup with his national team. Despite speculation about a move to the Saudi Pro League—he considered a £100 million transfer to Al-Hilal last year—Fernandes has informed the club he will stay at Old Trafford this summer.
Under manager Michael Carrick, who revived a struggling squad, Fernandes enjoyed a record-breaking season. With Carrick signed permanently and reinforcements expected, Fernandes is poised to cement his legacy at United. For the first time in 17 years, the club possesses an undisputed world-class talent in a specific position, giving them a trump card for the upcoming campaign.
