Bruno Fernandes limp raises Manchester United derby fitness concern
Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes was seen leaving Old Trafford with a noticeable limp after Wednesday’s 4-0 Champions League win over Sabah FK, raising concern ahead of this weekend’s derby.
The 32-year-old Portugal international completed the full match and showed no obvious difficulty during the game, but appeared uncomfortable as he departed alongside United medical staff. Footage showed Fernandes acknowledging supporters while favouring one leg.
Fernandes concern follows emphatic European win
- United marked their return to top-level European competition with a four-goal victory over Azerbaijan’s Sabah FK.
- Fernandes was among the scorers, with Matheus Cunha, Benjamin Sesko and Lisandro Martinez also on target.
- The captain played all 90 minutes as United kept a clean sheet.
- Post-match images then put the focus on Fernandes’ fitness after he left the stadium appearing to struggle.
There has been no confirmation of the nature or severity of any issue. His ability to finish the match offers United hope that it could be a minor knock rather than a longer absence.
Carrick wants more despite clean sheet
Michael Carrick welcomed the result and the defensive shutout, but said United must continue to improve after an underwhelming opening in the league.
He said the team wanted more points from its first three league fixtures, while adding that the performances had included encouraging elements. Carrick stressed that the clean sheet mattered and said the side should focus on progressing over the season rather than reacting too strongly to individual results.
The United manager also said the squad is developing aspects that were not present last season, with players responding positively to the tactical demands.
What happens next
United host a major local derby at Old Trafford this weekend having collected only four points from their opening three league games.
Fernandes’ availability will be a key issue before that match. If he cannot play, Kobbie Mainoo and Youri Tielemans could be asked to carry more of the creative responsibility after both impressed in the Champions League victory.
