Manchester United are bracing themselves for a difficult spell after confirming that captain Bruno Fernandes is set to spend time on the sidelines following a hamstring injury picked up in the recent clash with Aston Villa.
The Portuguese midfielder, who is widely admired for his resilience and near-constant availability, was forced to withdraw from the match at halftime after experiencing discomfort, immediately raising concerns within the club.
Initial assessments suggest that Fernandes will be unavailable for several key fixtures, dealing a major blow to Ruben Amorim’s plans during a congested and demanding phase of the season.
Although the precise length of his recovery will depend on how well he responds to treatment and rehabilitation, reports indicate that Fernandes has set his sights on making his comeback in the Manchester derby against Manchester City on January 17th.
That target offers a glimmer of optimism, but it also underlines the scale of the challenge facing United in the weeks leading up to that encounter.
If that timeline holds, Fernandes is expected to miss the remainder of Manchester United’s Premier League fixtures scheduled for the end of 2025, as well as the opening matches of 2026.
This would rule him out of important league games against Newcastle United, Wolves, Leeds United, and Burnley. In addition, he is likely to be unavailable for United’s FA Cup tie against Brighton, a competition in which the club traditionally places great importance.
Losing such an influential figure across multiple competitions inevitably puts added pressure on the rest of the squad.
Fernandes’ absence is particularly significant because of the central role he plays in United’s system. Beyond his goals and assists, he acts as the team’s primary organiser, setting the tempo, directing pressing triggers, and serving as a vocal leader on the pitch.
His intensity and willingness to take responsibility in decisive moments make him difficult to replace, both tactically and emotionally.
Amorim will now have to reshuffle his midfield and rely on alternative sources of creativity and leadership to keep United competitive.
The possibility of Fernandes returning in time for the Manchester derby does, however, offer something for supporters to hold onto.
That fixture carries enormous symbolic and sporting importance, especially given that United suffered a heavy 3–0 defeat in the reverse meeting at the Etihad Stadium back in September.
Having their captain back for such a high-profile occasion could provide a psychological lift and a sense of renewed belief, particularly if United are still fighting to stay within touching distance of the top four.
In the meantime, Amorim faces a stern test of his tactical flexibility and squad management. He will need to find ways to compensate for Fernandes’ creativity, drive, and leadership while navigating a run of matches that could define United’s season.
How effectively the team copes without their captain may ultimately shape not only their short-term results, but also their long-term ambitions under the new manager.
