Man United facing unfamiliar Bruno Fernandes problem, it’s not just his position

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Bruno Fernandes has faced plenty of questions over his new position at Manchester United but there is a bigger concern about his performances this season.

Ruben Amorim has stuck to his shape and style at Manchester United despite facing criticism and pressure from all angles.

With the Red Devils now on a five-match unbeaten run, Amorim has silenced his critics, especially those talking about his midfield setup.

Bruno Fernandes has played in a deeper role this season, allowing space for new signings Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo to play further forward.

Together with a revitalised Casemiro, United’s captain has formed a formidable duo in midfield, but his finishing this season will be a worry for Amorim.

Bruno Fernandes is underperforming his expected goals

Since joining United in 2020, Bruno Fernandes has been the player everyone looks towards to grab a winner or produce a moment of magic.

Fernandes has scored 100 goals in just over 300 appearances for United. His record in front of goal for a midfielder has been nothing short of extraordinary.

This season, he has scored twice in the Premier League, but figures suggest Fernandes should be scoring much more frequently.

Fernandes has an expected goals tally (xG) of 4.62 in the Premier League – the highest of any United player this season.

It means the Portuguese maestro is currently underperforming by 2.62 – his biggest underperformance of any season as a United player.

In comparison, Bryan Mbeumo has scored five Premier League goals from an xG of just 3.2 – the second-highest in the squad.

Bruno Fernandes is struggling in front of goal

The stats don’t lie – Fernandes has been poor in front of goal this season.

His expected goal figures are inflated as United’s penalty taker, and his two misses against Fulham and Brentford help to explain his underperformance.

READ MORE: Bruno Fernandes shortlisted for The Best FIFA Men’s Award 2025 as Man Utd milestone beckons

But he has also had some poor misses for a player that fans are so used to seeing hitting the back of the net. In the 2-2 draw against Tottenham, Fernandes missed a decent chance when his run from deep was found with a lofted pass.

United are less reliant on Fernandes for goals now that new signings are chipping in, but Amorim will still need his captain at his best if Champions League qualification is on the cards this season.