Bruno Fernandes has issued an emotional statement on social media following his red card against Porto in the Europa League. Manchester United’s season went from bad to worse as they blew a two-goal lead before losing their captain while chasing the game in the closing minutes.
Fernandes was given his second yellow card of the night for a high boot as he attempted to control the ball in the box. Last weekend, he was shown a straight red for a clumsy challenge on James Maddison during United’s defeat at the hands of Tottenham.
While his sending-off against Spurs was later overturned, the United captain has now been given his marching orders twice within the space of a week.
On Friday night, he posted a lengthy statement on Instagram as he opened up on the difficulties he has been facing over the last few days. He also thanked his fans for their messages of support in the wake of his dismissal against Porto.
“Tough moment as a team and personally for me, one of the hardest,” wrote Fernandes. “Almost five years at the club with ups and downs, good and bad moments.
“Personally, I have always had challenges and adversities throughout my career and something that’s never happened was that I go silent or hide myself from responsibilities in difficult moments.
“I know it sounds cliche and most of you United fans will be tired of it, but no one is more disappointed than myself with my own moment. Even through this moment, I appreciate all of you that had positive messages of belief in me and the team.”
United boss Erik ten Hag was quick to defend Fernandes after the final whistle against Porto, insisting that his captain does not lack discipline in spite of his conduct over the last two games.
“The red card was overturned for Bruno so it was acknowledged it was a mistake on Sunday [against Tottenham],” said Ten Hag. “This was very unlucky [against Porto] and he gave everything to make a goal.
“He was in the right moment, in the right spot but he came on his blind side. I wouldn’t address this as indiscipline.”
