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Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim has called on his squad to raise their level in the absence of captain Bruno Fernandes, admitting the influential midfielder is “impossible to replace” but insisting the team must adapt.
Fernandes picked up a soft tissue injury during Sunday’s 2-1 defeat away to Aston Villa. While Amorim expects the Portugal international to return in the near future, he acknowledged the immediate challenge of coping without a player who has been central to United’s attacking structure all season.
The midfielder has started every Premier League match and leads the division for chances created, with 51 to his name. His absence is compounded by the unavailability of Kobbie Mainoo, leaving United stretched ahead of Friday night’s home clash with Newcastle.
Speaking at his pre-match press conference on Wednesday, Amorim said the team could no longer depend on a single individual. He stressed that Fernandes’ injury should serve as a wake-up call for others to assume greater responsibility, particularly in areas such as organisation, creativity and set-pieces, where United will also miss Bryan Mbeumo and Amad Diallo.
The Portuguese coach described Fernandes as a player who understands every role on the pitch and pays attention to the smallest tactical details, often directing teammates during substitutions and dead-ball situations. However, Amorim believes his absence presents an opportunity for others, including Lisandro Martinez and Luke Shaw, to emerge as leaders.
Amorim also hinted at tactical flexibility, suggesting United may explore alternative approaches in Fernandes’ absence. He praised young midfielder Jack Fletcher for his contribution off the bench against Villa and indicated that the situation could open the door for more involvement from squad players.
United currently sit seventh in the Premier League, three points outside the Champions League places. Following the Newcastle fixture, they face Wolves, Leeds, Burnley and Brighton, with Amorim keen to build momentum before tougher tests against Manchester City and Arsenal.
Despite winning only two of their last eight league matches, Amorim struck a confident note, insisting he believes his side are capable of winning any game. While acknowledging the difficulties posed by injuries, he said focus, belief and collective effort would be crucial as United attempt to turn their form around.
