Manchester United legend Paul Scholes has delivered a powerful message to manager Rúben Amorim, despite the team’s thrilling 2–1 victory over Liverpool at Anfield — one of United’s most celebrated wins in recent years.
Speaking after the match, Scholes acknowledged the progress and fighting spirit the team showed but warned that a key issue still threatens to undermine Amorim’s long-term success in the Premier League: Bruno Fernandes’ inconsistency and lack of discipline.
Appearing on Premier League Productions, Scholes began by praising the team’s tactical organization and defensive resilience, noting how Amorim’s game plan worked effectively against Liverpool’s high press.
However, he quickly turned his focus to Fernandes, arguing that while the Portuguese midfielder remains a crucial player for United, his erratic decision-making and emotional outbursts continue to be a major concern.
“In as much as everyone’s celebrating this win, Amorim has to fix something quickly if he wants to make a real mark in this league,” Scholes said.
“Bruno is a brilliant player — maybe the most creative in the squad — but right now, he’s the one I’m most worried about.”
United’s performance at Anfield was built on solid defensive discipline and lethal counterattacks, with Marcus Rashford and Fernandes providing the decisive goals.
Yet Scholes insisted that, aside from scoring, Fernandes failed to influence the rhythm and control of the match.
He highlighted how often the midfielder lost possession and how little defensive support he offered — weaknesses that could prove costly against stronger opponents.
“He got the goal, yes, but beyond that, he gave the ball away far too many times,” Scholes explained. “You can’t play as a No. 10 and lose possession 10 or 15 times in one game. Against elite teams, those mistakes can change everything.”
Scholes was careful to clarify that his comments were not a personal attack but a tactical observation. He noted that Amorim’s system thrives on structure, patience, and team coordination, while Fernandes often plays with too much freedom and risk.
“Bruno has incredible passion and energy, but sometimes he tries to do everything on his own,” Scholes said. “Amorim’s football relies on discipline, not chaos. There has to be balance.”
The former United midfielder also questioned Fernandes’ leadership style, criticizing his frequent confrontations with referees and teammates.
“Being a captain isn’t about shouting or throwing your arms in frustration — it’s about setting the right example,” Scholes emphasized.
This is not the first time Fernandes has been criticized by United legends. Roy Keane and Gary Neville have also expressed frustration with his temperament and inconsistency in high-pressure matches.
Against Liverpool, those concerns resurfaced, even though he managed to get on the scoresheet.
Amorim’s structured, possession-based style has improved players like Kobbie Mainoo and Casemiro, who thrive under his organized approach.
But Fernandes’ natural instinct for freedom sometimes clashes with that philosophy.
A source inside the club reportedly described the situation as “a delicate balance between creativity and tactical control.”
Scholes warned that Amorim must address the issue soon if he wants United to compete for major honors. “In the Premier League, mistakes don’t go unpunished,” he said. “Bruno needs to adapt — he can keep his creativity, but he has to reduce the recklessness.”
Fans’ reactions online were divided. Some supported Scholes’ criticism, claiming Fernandes remains too inconsistent, while others defended their captain, arguing that his goal and tireless effort were vital to the win.
Among pundits, Graeme Souness sided with Scholes, saying Fernandes “doesn’t always play for the team,” whereas Rio Ferdinand suggested Amorim should “guide Bruno’s passion rather than restrict it.”
As Amorim continues to reshape Manchester United, the real challenge may not be tactics but balance — finding a way to let Fernandes’ flair shine within the structure of a disciplined system.
Scholes’ message was clear: United’s victory at Anfield was inspiring, but if Amorim doesn’t manage the Bruno Fernandes problem, it could cost the club dearly down the line.
