Bruno Fernandes has set clear objectives for Portugal ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
When it comes to being a star player, Bruno Fernandes is exactly that for Manchester United and Portugal. His influence on the pitch has been felt by club and country for years, and he is showing no signs of stopping.
Sadly, Fernandes doesn’t get the same results for United as he does in a Portugal shirt. Roberto Martinez’s side is unbeaten in the qualifiers after winning all of their matches. It’s an impressive record that many of the Portuguese squad want to take with them to the World Cup next summer.
It has been a slow start to the season for Fernandes at United. Ruben Amorim’s side is 10th in the Premier League, winning just three of their first seven matches. Fernandes, wearing the captain’s armband, has missed two penalties, but he also has two goals to his name.
| Position | Team | Played MP | Won W | Drawn D | Lost L | For GF | Against GA | Diff GD | Points Pts |
| 8 |  EvertonEverton | 7 | 3 | 2 | 2 | 9 | 7 | 2 | 11 |
| 9 |  SunderlandSunderland | 7 | 3 | 2 | 2 | 7 | 6 | 1 | 11 |
| 10 |  Manchester UnitedManchester United | 7 | 3 | 1 | 3 | 9 | 11 | -2 | 10 |
| 11 |  NewcastleNewcastle | 7 | 2 | 3 | 2 | 6 | 5 | 1 | 9 |
| 12 |  BrightonBrighton | 7 | 2 | 3 | 2 | 10 | 10 | 0 | 9 |
Fernandes has suggested that his priority for the coming year is with the national team rather than United.
Despite being linked with a move away from Old Trafford, respected journalist Fabrizio Romano has dismissed fresh claims that Fernandes had an agreement with a Saudi Pro League club. The reporter stressed that interest in the player remains and hints they will be ready to make offers if and when he decides to leave United.
Bruno Fernandes focused on World Cup glory
Portugal are well on their way to securing a place at the World Cup next summer, which will be played across three countries – the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
After a perfect start to their qualifying campaign, Fernandes wants to ensure that Portugal continues winning all of their matches. That way, they want to build a winning mentality ahead of the biggest tournament in international football.
Portugal face the Republic of Ireland on Saturday night, and Fernandes has revealed his dream of winning the World Cup, which is something he is aware of being a dream for everyone in his homeland.
“We have to take it game by game, even though we know we want to reach the World Cup as quickly as possible,” Fernandes told Channel 11, as quoted by O Jogo.
“Our main goal is to win every game, and we’re focused on that, knowing that the dream of the World Cup is always present.
“Since I was little, I’ve dreamed of winning the World Cup, and it’s not just my dream, it’s the dream of all Portuguese people. First, we’ll do everything we can to be there, and then we’ll do everything we can to make that dream come true.”
The weight of a nation will be on Fernandes’ shoulders next summer.
It’s the same story at club level, where Fernandes is expected to be the one who takes United out of trouble, despite having to play in a deeper role under Amorim this season.
Perhaps Amorim should take note of how Portugal play Fernandes against the Republic of Ireland on Saturday.
Man Utd legend will be sitting in Republic of Ireland dugout
Fernandes isn’t the only United player involved in Portugal’s squad that will take on Ireland this weekend.
Diogo Dalot is also in contention to start, with former United star Cristiano Ronaldo expected to lead the line in attack.
However, another former United player will be sitting in the Republic of Ireland dugout as a coach.
John O’Shea is currently assistant manager of the Republic of Ireland and they’re desperate to avoid defeat against the Portuguese to keep their World Cup dreams alive.
O’Shea works alongside Heimir Hallgrimsson, who is unlikely to be offered a new contract to remain as manager when his current deal runs out.
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