I have always said that one of Bruno Fernandes’ biggest strengths is that he is always available for selection.
The Manchester United and Portugal midfielder, who is very rarely injured, has played more minutes of football than any other elite player in the last year.
World players’ union Fifpro claim the Portugal international played 6,666 minutes between 15 September 2022 and 15 September 2023. The data shows Fernandes played in 72 games over the period for club and country.
Fernandes has struggled for form this season, despite being handed the captain’s armband during the summer. He has looked a frustrated figure for the most part but that can be excused by the results we’ve had this term. On the stats front, Fernandes has scored two goals and registered as many assists in 9 appearances.
Fifpro analysed data on 1,800 players to evaluate the physical and mental demands top players like Fernandes face. It is also campaigning for changes to the football calendar to protect players and we already know there’s too many fixtures.
But that doesn’t stop governing bodies like UEFA flirting with the idea of having more matches each season.
Something will have to give (axe the Carabao Cup?) if that happens.
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its not a strength if you aren’t particularly productive.
opportunity cost? has anyone ever heard of such a thing? his negatives far far outweigh any positives he brings.
bizarre that united fans and the club itself can’t see this – rival fan and non-biased pundits can.
does bruno play for arsenal, city, liverpool or newcastle? no chance. therein lies the problem – uniteds star player and captain just isn’t very good – uniteds squad is good enough for 5th/6th but we have a worse manager than many clubs so it will be 8th or lower this year.