In round 15 of the Premier League, Man United hosted Nottingham Forest at home. Possessing the ball 72% of the time and making 7 shots on target compared to only 3 accurate shots from their opponents, Man United still lost 2-3 in the end.
Bruno Fernandes was the leader of Man United, contributing 1 goal and 1 assist. However, he was withdrawn by coach Amorim in the 76th minute, when the Red Devils were still trailing 3-2. Mason Mount came on as a replacement, but did not make a significant impact.
Former player Owen Hargreaves was surprised, according to Man United Focus: “I was surprised Bruno was taken off. He scored one goal, assisted another and was dangerous. He always is. Bruno and Amad can create something. I am sure Amorim will regret this decision.
Bruno showed that he is unique. He is like a coach for his teammates on the pitch. On the first goal, he told De Ligt where to pass the ball. Bruno and Amad are two rare people who make a difference.”
Bruno Fernandes has almost always played the full 90 minutes under Ten Hag, but Amorim has shown he is willing to rest him, having done so against Everton and Nottingham recently.
After the defeat to Nottingham, the Man United manager explained: “I know Bruno is really dangerous when he has the ball but he is too tired. I also want to play Mason Mount as a second midfielder and add strength on the left wing.”
It was the second consecutive defeat under Amorim, after they were beaten 2-0 by Arsenal in the previous round. With the Red Devils only ranked 13th in the Premier League, the former Sporting coach is facing huge pressure.
