Former Portugal defender Jose Fonte cannot get his head around how Bruno Fernandes still divides opinion, pointing to the high standards he has maintained for years.
Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes is currently preparing for Portugal’s Round of 32 clash against Croatia at the 2026 World Cup.
In the opening three matches, Fernandes managed one assist, adding to his impressive tally of 21 assists for United last season.
Fernandes was voted Premier League Player of the Year after helping steer Michael Carrick’s side to a third-place finish and securing Champions League qualification.
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Jose Fonte hits back at Bruno Fernandes criticism
Several key players in the Portugal squad have been the subject of criticism at the World Cup.
From Cristiano Ronaldo to Fernandes, there is nowhere to hide as we reach the latter stages of the tournament.
Former Portugal defender Jose Fonte has questioned those criticising Fernandes, stressing that he is a big fan of the United captain.
Fonte claims Fernandes has carried United for years and believes he can help the team compete for the Premier League title.
Speaking to the Could It Be Coming Home podcast, Fonte said: “I don’t understand why he divides opinion. The numbers he has given in the last few years are astonishing from midfield.
“I am one of the biggest fans of Bruno, I like he takes risks, he is always playing and looking for his strikers, he is looking to make an assist to play forward, and you have to praise that.
“He has been growing into his leader capacity, he has been super successful at Manchester United lately in leading the team, carrying United the most over the last few years.
“In the international team he is also influential. He is one of the leaders. We all have big hopes not just for this tournament but also next year at United that he can step up even more if it is possible with the help that he can be even more competitive and fight for the Premier League.”
- ⚡️ NEWS IN BRIEF
- Jose Fonte disagrees with the criticism aimed at Bruno Fernandes
- Fernandes has one assist in three games for Portugal at the 2026 World Cup
- Fonte hails Fernandes for carrying Manchester United
Bruno Fernandes believes Portugal can win the World Cup – Do you agree?
Jose Fonte was linked to Man Utd in 2016
During his time at Southampton, Fonte was heavily linked with a move to United.
It was the summer of 2016, and Fonte had played a key role in helping Portugal win Euro 2016.
Fonte became a target with fellow countryman Jose Mourinho looking for additions in defence as United manager.
A move never materialised, with Fonte remaining at Southampton.
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