Bruno Fernandes Suspended: Impact on Manchester United’s Europa League Plans and Potential Replacements
Manchester United have just two points in their Europa League campaign after drawing their second group match against FC Porto on Thursday night.
To add to their woes, captain Bruno Fernandes was sent off after receiving two yellow cards.
Here’s a breakdown of how Fernandes’ suspension will affect United and what the team plans to do in his absence.
Fernandes, who had already been sent off for the first time in his United career during the 3-0 loss to Tottenham on Sunday, saw red again in the 3-3 draw against Porto.
Fortunately for United, the FA overturned his three-match Premier League suspension earlier this week, meaning Fernandes will be available for Sunday’s clash against Aston Villa.
During the Porto game, Fernandes was booked in the first half, and in the 81st minute, he received a second yellow card for attempting to extend his leg to reach the ball instead of heading it, grazing an opposing player in the chest.
United were forced to finish the match with 10 men. Due to the two yellow cards, Fernandes will miss United’s next Europa League fixture against Jose Mourinho’s Fenerbahce later this month.
As for his replacement, manager Erik ten Hag is likely to turn to Mason Mount, who missed the last Europa League game due to injury. If fit, Mount is expected to step into the midfield when United face Fenerbahce in Turkey.
Fernandes, however, will almost certainly start against Aston Villa this weekend, and he will be eligible to return to European competition in early November when United host PAOK at Old Trafford.
Bruno Fernandes Suspended: Impact on Manchester United’s Europa League Plans and Potential Replacements
