Manchester United’s Missed Opportunity: Matheus Nunes and Bruno Fernandes’ Discontent
Manchester United has faced criticism for its recent transfer strategy, especially given the significant sums spent on players who have not met expectations.
With investments like $103 million (£80 million/€95 million) for Harry Maguire and $109 million (£85 million/€100 million) for Antony, fans and insiders alike are questioning what impact more astute acquisitions might have had.
Bruno Fernandes’ Frustration Over Missing Out on Matheus Nunes
Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has been vocal about the club’s failure to sign his fellow Portuguese midfielder, Matheus Nunes.
Nunes, now a Manchester City player, won his first Premier League title last season. Before his move to Wolves in August 2022 and his subsequent transfer to City, United had the opportunity to secure Nunes’ talents.
However, United opted to spend $90 million (£70 million/€83 million) on the experienced Casemiro instead of pursuing Nunes, who joined Wolves for a mere $49 million (£38 million/€45 million), with the fee potentially rising to $55 million (£43 million/€51 million).
Fernandes was visibly disappointed with this decision, expressing his frustration to the United board for not prioritizing Nunes.
Fernandes has consistently praised Nunes and anticipated his success in England. In an interview with Record, a Portuguese publication, Fernandes stated, “I’ve already talked to him. I’ve already told him that he should have come here (to United) and not there (to Wolves). I’m very happy for him.”
He added: “He’s going to experience the best league in the world, he’s going to have players beside him with a lot of quality, like Ruben (Neves) and Joao (Moutinho), who will teach him a lot. They are two experienced players.”
Fernandes also lauded Nunes during his time at Sporting Lisbon, saying: “Matheus is doing incredible things.
He has an incredible scope for growth, he is a humble, hardworking kid and I’m sure he will probably explode in the Premier League and will show his qualities. Because for his qualities, Matheus was not made for the Premier League, but rather the Premier League was made for Matheus.”
The Impact of Nunes’ Move to Manchester City
United’s decision not to sign Nunes proved costly when Manchester City acquired the midfielder for $68 million (£53 million/€63 million) last summer.
Pep Guardiola, like Fernandes, recognized Nunes’ exceptional talents, previously describing him as “one of the best players in the world” during his time at Sporting Lisbon. Following his transfer to City, Guardiola praised Nunes as an “exceptional player.”
Despite joining a top-tier team, Nunes featured in only 17 of City’s Premier League matches last season, with an additional 11 appearances in cup competitions. He aims to establish himself as a first-team regular under Guardiola in the upcoming season.
Bruno Fernandes’ Future at Manchester United
While Fernandes has been a standout performer for Manchester United since his arrival from Sporting in January 2020, his future at Old Trafford remains uncertain, even though he was appointed captain last season. Despite his contributions, Fernandes’ status with the club is not guaranteed.
Last season was challenging for Erik ten Hag’s squad, leading co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe to demand significant changes.
Fernandes is notably not among the players guaranteed to stay during the summer transfer window, indicating possible shifts in the team’s composition.
Paris Saint-Germain is reportedly monitoring Fernandes’ situation, potentially testing Manchester United’s resolve regarding their captain’s future. Just two months ago, Fernandes made it clear what United must do to ensure his continued presence, stating boldly that the club “needs to want me.” As the transfer window unfolds, Fernandes’ role at Manchester United could become a focal point of interest for other top clubs.
Manchester United’s Missed Opportunity: Matheus Nunes and Bruno Fernandes’ Discontent