Bruno Fernandes reveals the key role he wants to play under Ruben Amorim as new Man Utd boss goes in search of first win

The 39-year-old tactician arrived mid-season from Sporting Lisbon, replacing Erik ten Hag after a disappointing start to the campaign. Despite his reputation for transforming struggling teams, Amorim’s first match in charge - a 1-1 draw against Ipswich Town at Portman Road - highlighted the challenges ahead.

Amorim wasted no time in altering the team's tactical framework, transitioning from the 4-2-3-1 formation used by Ten Hag and interim boss Ruud van Nistelrooy to a more dynamic 3-4-3 setup, which brought him considerable success in Portugal. The adjustment, however, presented mixed results. While Marcus Rashford found the back of the net, the team struggled to fully adapt to the new structure, leading to a lack of cohesion and fluidity in their overall play.

Speaking to reporters on Wednesday, Fernandes emphasized his responsibility as captain to bridge the gap between the manager’s instructions and the players’ execution during matches.

"I'm really aware of what we do in training," Fernandes said.

"I try to absorb everything from every position. Obviously, it's not possible to get everything but I try to have an idea of the game because -- as the captain -- sometimes the manager cannot give the message from the bench to the pitch because of the noise or whatever.

"You have to be able to try and solve the situation together with your teammates. Knowing, or having the knowledge of every position; the movements they do, what kind of pressure the manager wants us to do. That's a little bit of my role."

Ten Hag’s dismissal marked a turning point for United’s season, and Fernandes candidly discussed the shared accountability among the players and staff for the team’s earlier struggles.

"Obviously if you change a manager mid-season, it is because things are not going as you want," he said. "And if things are not going as you want, everyone has to take the blame. Everyone in their department.

"As I said before, it is easier to get rid of a manager than 15 or 20 players or whatever. Now our focus is on what the future can bring and how we can get as soon as possible and as quickly as possible the new ideas of the new manager."

Manchester United now turn their focus to the Europa League, where they host Norwegian side Bodo/Glimt on Thursday. The match presents Amorim with an opportunity to showcase progress in his tactical revolution while also building confidence among the players.