Fernandes feels ‘near perfect’ Man Utd ends big Ronaldo debate
Bruno Fernandes has played down claims that Cristiano Ronaldo returning to Manchester United will adversely affect the side’s balance in attack.
Ronaldo is now back at Old Trafford after 12 seasons away from the club. He has won everything the sport has to offer domestically during spells with the Red Devils, Real Madrid and Juventus. But the Portugal international was quick to dismiss any notion that his hunger for silverware has diminished in recent years.
And, true to his word, the 36-year-old scored twice on his ‘debut’ second time around. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side beat Newcastle United 4-1, with Fernandes also on the scoresheet alongside Jesse Lingard.
The north-west giants sit at the top of the Premier League standings, with 10 points from four games played. Chelsea are second on the same number of points while Manchester City sit third.
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Fernandes has been Solskjaer’s ‘go-to’ man since he arrived at the club in January 2020. But it is inevitable that the second-coming of his compatriot will put him in the shade to a certain extent.
It has been suggested that Ronaldo’s return might upset the applecart but Fernandes felt there was little wrong with Saturday’s display.
“It was almost perfect if we did not concede. We are really happy and the performance in general was really good,” he told Sky Sports. “Newcastle are really organised, defend well but we moved the ball quick and waited for the right moment to hit them.
“It is something I am working on and today I got the chance and scored.”
Fernandes has no problems working with Ronaldo
Ronaldo arrived late in the transfer window after it became obvious his time at Juve was over. City were said to be keen but he opted for a second stint at the Theatre of Dreams.
Both forwards are experts at set-pieces and taking penalties. Solskjaer played his cards close to his chest when asked which man would be the designated penalty taker.
And Fernandes has made it clear he and his fellow Portugal star will have no issues working together at club level.
“Everyone knows what Cristiano Ronaldo brought for the club and we are really happy to have him,” he added. “The most important, as he will say, is the result for the team. Good players can always play well together.”
Ronaldo posted on Instagram after the match. And he seemed positive that there could be plenty to show for their efforts at the conclusion of the season.
“Along with all my teammates and with the amazing support that we always get from the stands, we face the road ahead with confidence and optimism that we’ll all be celebrating together in the end,” he said.
“Proud to be back at Man. United and playing in the Premier League once again, but above all, happy to help the team!”
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