Manchester United’s season has begun in a slump, and the spotlight has fallen on captain Bruno Fernandes. The 31‑year‑old, who was named PFA Player of the Year for 2025‑26 and helped the club finish third last season, has yet to find the net in the first six Premier League matches, a stark contrast to the nine goals and 21 assists he delivered in the previous campaign. Despite playing every minute of the opening games, Fernandes has only scored three times and provided one assist, all against Ipswich, United’s sole victory so far.
Statistical evidence points to a dip in Fernandes’ influence. He averages 3.3 shots per game, his second‑best figure, but his shots on target average has fallen to 0.8, the lowest since his arrival. Chance creation has also slipped to 2.5 per game, down from the 4.0 he posted last season, and he has produced only one “big chance” this campaign. These numbers mirror the club’s poor start, with United earning just six points from six matches – the worst opening in 40 years.
The question remains whether Fernandes is the cause or the symptom of United’s struggles. His fitness has been questioned after he was omitted from a recent Nations League match against Norway, with Portugal manager Jorge Jesus noting he was “playing through pain.” Nevertheless, United manager Michael Carrick has dismissed the issue, describing it as a manageable “carry‑on” problem and praising Fernandes’ commitment in training.
Team dynamics have also shifted. Last season, the presence of striker Benjamin Sesko and midfielder Casemiro provided a balance that helped Fernandes flourish. Sesko’s injury and Casemiro’s departure to Inter Miami have left gaps in the attack and midfield. Carrick’s decision to rely on Matheus Cunha as a forward has not resolved the problem, as Cunha has often dropped deep into the space Fernandes would normally occupy, limiting the duo’s effectiveness.
Carrick has made it clear that no player is guaranteed a place, but he remains confident in Fernandes’ ability to rebound. “He’s a top player,” Carrick said. “Sometimes things don’t quite go for you, but he has done incredible things for the club and will do the same again.” United will need a turnaround from both the captain and the squad as the season progresses, with the hope that Fernandes can regain his form and help the team climb out of the early‑season slump.