Graeme Souness absolutely savaged Bruno Fernandes for throwing "the towel in" during Manchester United's 7-0 loss to Liverpool.
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Souness questioned Fernandes' leadership qualitiesSlammed him for his attitude during United's heavy defeatSavages example set by Portugal international WHAT HAPPENED?
Fernandes has been a pivotal figure for United since he joined the club and was appointed captain by Erik ten Hag, taking over the role from Harry Maguire. However, despite his impressive performances on the pitch, the Portuguese has been scrutinised for his behaviour and attitude during games – as he has allowed growing frustration to get the better of him on several occasions.
AdvertisementGetty ImagesWHAT SOUNESS SAID
Souness, speaking on the new podcast "Three Up Front," expressed his concerns about Fernandes' conduct during United's humiliating loss to Liverpool in the 2022/23 season. He felt that Fernandes lacked leadership and determination in the face of adversity and believed that the skipper gave up too easily, which is unbecoming of a captain.
“When you look at leaders in the modern game, one example is at Manchester United which is one of the biggest institutions in world football,” Souness said. “The club captain is Bruno Fernandes. When they were 3-0 down against Liverpool a couple of seasons ago, he just threw the towel in… he’s the captain! If anything, he should still be contributing, running around with enthusiasm and helping his teammates.
“I don’t think Fernandes can change that aspect of himself – it’s part of him. When he’s shrugging his shoulders and throwing his arms around, that’s just him.”
THE BIGGER PICTURE
This is not the first time that Souness has come down on Fernandes. The former Scottish international had earlier slammed Fernandes for going "missing" in crucial games and insisted that his leadership qualities are "unattractive".
Speaking after the 7-0 defeat, Souness stated: "He is obviously not a leader, it's as plain as the nose on the end of your face he is not a leader. His attitude when they went 3-0 down at Liverpool was appalling. Fernandes you'll see be a star when they are on top, when they are on the front foot and he is creative, he's a real talent, but he showed a side to him [during the 7-0 defeat by Liverpool] that day at Anfield which was very unattractive. The manager United have right now is willing to overlook that because he is going to win them games moving forward."
GettyWHAT NEXT?
As the 2024/25 Premier League season approaches, Souness' comments have reignited the debate about leadership at United. While Fernandes remains a key player for the Red Devils, his ability to lead the team effectively during crunch moments will be under scrutiny.