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Liverpool legend Graeme Souness has doubled down on his criticism of Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes' leadership qualities. The former Reds midfielder earlier slammed the Portugal international for his antics and has reiterated that stance once again.
Souness has insisted that Bruno Fernandes is not the right fit for being handed the captaincy at a massive club like Manchester United. The Scotsman claimed that the former Sporting CP star does not possess the attitude needed to motivate his team under difficult circumstances.
The Liverpool great said on William Hill’s new podcast, Three Up Front, as quoted by The Mirror:
“When you look at leaders in the modern game, one example is at Manchester United which is one of the biggest institutions in world football. The club captain is Bruno Fernandes. When they were 3-0 down against Liverpool a couple of seasons ago, he just threw the towel in… he’s the captain! If anything, he should still be contributing, running around with enthusiasm and helping his teammates."
Souness added:
“I don’t think Fernandes can change that aspect of himself – it’s part of him. When he’s shrugging his shoulders and throwing his arms around, that’s just him.”
Souness also hit out at the Manchester United skipper in the past for his antics on the pitch after his side's 7-0 loss to Liverpool in the 2022-23 season.
Back then, the Scotsman said:
"He is obviously not a leader, it's as plain as the nose on the end of your face he is not a leader. His attitude when they went 3-0 down at Liverpool was appalling. Fernandes you'll see be a star when they are on top, when they are on the front foot and he is creative, he's a real talent, but he showed a side to him [during the 7-0 defeat by Liverpool] that day at Anfield which was very unattractive. The manager United have right now is willing to overlook that because he is going to win them games moving forward."
Bruno Fernandes has been a key player for Manchester United since his reported £67.6 million move from Sporting CP in 2020. He was handed captaincy by Erik ten Hag in July 2023 replacing Harry Maguire.
The Portugal international has so far made 233 appearances for the Red Devils scoring 79 times while producing 66 assists. He has won two trophies during his time at Old Trafford.
Didi Hamann predicts his top four for the upcoming season involving Manchester United and Liverpool
Former Liverpool midfielder Didi Hamann has made his top four predictions ahead of the upcoming 2024-25 season. The former Germany international believes Manchester City will retain their title.
Hamann has backed Manchester United to finish second while tipping Arsenal for the third place. He has tipped his former club Liverpool to secure the fourth spot.
Hamann wrote on TopOffShoreSportsBooks:
"It's hard not to see Manchester City where they always are [at the top]. I'm not certain about Arsenal because they have missed their chances. I would go for Manchester City, Manchester United - if they make the signings they are linked with - then Arsenal in third and Liverpool in fourth."
He added:
"I've got a feeling Man United will do okay next season. Obviously, Kobbie Mainoo has been a breath of fresh air in the Euros and he'll play a major role."
Manchester United finished eighth last season, while Liverpool finished third albeit they won the FA Cup and League Cup respectively.
