Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has delivered a fresh update on the fitness of club captain Bruno Fernandes, confirming the Portuguese midfielder will miss the crucial Boxing Day Premier League fixture against Newcastle United.
Fernandes and Mainoo Ruled Out for Magpies Clash
The influential skipper was forced off at half-time during United's 2-1 defeat to Aston Villa last weekend, having sustained a soft tissue injury. Initial post-match comments from Amorim suggested a worryingly lengthy absence, but the manager has since softened that stance.
Speaking at his pre-Newcastle press conference, Amorim explicitly ruled both Fernandes and young midfielder Kobbie Mainoo out of the upcoming match. Mainoo is managing a separate calf issue. "No, not for this game [Newcastle], they are recovering," Amorim stated. "I don't think it will take a lot of time, I think Kobbie will return faster than Bruno."
No Fixed Return Date for United Captain
When pressed to provide a specific timeline for Fernandes's return to action—amid speculation he could be back for the Manchester derby on 17 January—the United boss was cautious. "I don’t want to say, I have an idea but let’s see," Amorim explained, refusing to commit to a definitive date.
The potential loss of Fernandes is a significant blow for the Red Devils. Since his arrival at Old Trafford in January 2020, the playmaker has missed just two matches due to injury and one through illness, underlining his remarkable durability and importance to the side.
Amorim Calls for Squad to Step Up in Absence of Key Men
Amorim was frank about the challenge of replacing his captain's multifaceted contribution, which extends beyond mere chance creation. "It’s impossible to replace Bruno," he admitted. "A lot of people need to step up. On every set-piece, he is the guy organising the team... Sometimes we rely on Bruno for the organisation and creation."
The situation is compounded by the absence of Bryan Mbeumo and Amad Diallo, who are away at the African Cup of Nations. Amorim sees this as a critical opportunity for other players to demonstrate leadership. He pointed to the positive debut of 18-year-old Jack Fletcher off the bench against Villa as an example for others to follow.
"We have other players, we need to maybe see different ways of playing," Amorim said. "I think Jack Fletcher did a very good job... I am confident we can win any game. We have some problems, but I believe in the team, even without many players in this moment."
The United manager concluded with a message of faith in his squad's depth and focus, asserting that victory at St. James' Park remains achievable despite the mounting injury concerns.
