Manchester United's 2-1 defeat at Aston Villa has been compounded by a significant injury to captain Bruno Fernandes, with manager Ruben Amorim admitting the midfielder will be out for "a while".
Fernandes Forced Off With Muscle Problem
The 31-year-old Portugal international was seen in clear discomfort during the first half at Villa Park, repeatedly rubbing the back of his right leg. Despite managing to continue until half-time, Fernandes did not emerge for the second period, replaced by Lisandro Martinez.
The match itself saw Morgan Rogers fire Villa ahead with a stunning opener, only for Matheus Cunha to equalise for United before the break. Rogers then scored the decisive winner in the second half to seal a 2-1 victory for the home side.
Amorim Confirms Significant Setback
Speaking to Sky Sports after the final whistle, a concerned Ruben Amorim provided a worrying update. "I think it's soft tissue so it's going to be a while. We'll see," the United head coach stated.
He emphasised the scale of the injury crisis he is currently navigating, revealing the club is now without eight first-team players during the hectic festive schedule. This list grew before kick-off, with Kobbie Mainoo ruled out due to a calf problem picked up in training.
"It is really strange. During this year, especially at this time, we have so many problems, but we have to cope with that," Amorim added, pointing to the debuts of academy products Jack Fletcher and Lacey as rare positives.
Captain's Remarkable Fitness Record Threatened
The injury is a major concern given Fernandes's exceptional durability since joining Manchester United in 2020. He has missed just 17 of United's 325 matches in that five-year period, establishing himself as the team's indispensable talisman and leader.
His potential absence comes at a particularly sensitive time, following his recent public criticism of the club's standards, which had dominated the pre-match narrative.
Dalot Sees Opportunity in Adversity
Defender Diogo Dalot, in his post-match interview, acknowledged the severity of losing Fernandes but suggested it could open doors for others. "It's massive. We don't know how bad it is but for him to come off, we know how tough it is for him," Dalot said.
He added a note of optimism for the squad: "This is a time when opportunities come for other players. It's a time when you can step up and show why you deserve to play in the team."
Amorim, reflecting on his philosophy, stressed his commitment to finding solutions within the squad, whether from the academy or beyond. "Every manager wants to bring players through from the academy and not spend money because this gives value to the manager. I just want to win," he concluded.
Manchester United now face the daunting prospect of a crucial run of Premier League fixtures without their captain and chief creator, as Amorim's injury woes reach a new peak.
