What Ole Gunnar Solskjaer asked international coach to say to Manchester United star he signed

SALFORD, ENGLAND - MAY 13: Ole Gunnar Solskjaer looks on as they arrive at the stadium prior to the Sky Bet League Two Play-Off Semi-Final First Leg match between Salford City and Stockport County at Peninsula Stadium on May 13, 2023 in Salford, England. (Photo by Matt McNulty/Getty Images)

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer used his connections to get a simple, touching message delivered to his former Manchester United talisman, Bruno Fernandes.

The midfielder provided for his country yet again on Sunday night by netting the opening goal in their final Euro 2024 qualifier against Iceland, having already played a crucial role in his nation booking their spot early for the tournament.

Across the qualifying stage of the competition, Fernandes’ statistics have been scintillating; six goals and seven assists have etched his name as the top assister as he proved yet again why he is one of the most highly-rated in his position across world football.

In terms of his contributions for United – 68 goals and 57 assists in 202 games – Solskjaer is who we can thank for that, as he pushed for the signing of the ‘Portuguese magnifico’ back in 2020. Three years later, he captains the club and is irreplaceable in the starting 11.

Solskjaer’s heartwarming gesture to Fernandes

Solskjaer is well-acquainted with Iceland boss Age Hareide due to the time they spent together at Molde, so contacted him ahead of their clash with Portugal last night to reach out to Fernandes.

Speaking to Record following the full-time whistle, United’s No.8 stated: “The Icelandic coach said he spoke to Solskjaer, who had sent me a hug.”

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