BREAKING NEWS: “We beat them, but honestly this is the most dangerously aggressive Manchester United player I’ve faced in years” — Danny Welbeck singles out one Red Devil who truly impressed him
In a pulsating Premier League encounter at the Amex Stadium on March 25, 2023, Brighton & Hove Albion captain Danny Welbeck offered striking praise for a Manchester United player who, despite ending the night on the losing side, left a powerful impression on the hosts.
While many expected Welbeck to highlight Benjamin Sesko or another attacking figure, the former United striker instead pointed to Bruno Fernandes as the standout performer on the pitch.
The match itself was a high-intensity contest, filled with tactical battles, relentless pressing, and moments of individual brilliance.
Brighton ultimately emerged victorious, but the performance of Fernandes stood out so clearly that even the opposition captain felt compelled to acknowledge it publicly.
Welbeck, a player known for his experience and football intelligence, admitted that although Brighton managed to secure the win, Fernandes was the most aggressive and influential United player he had encountered in years of facing the club.
According to Welbeck, Fernandes was simply unlucky not to find the back of the net again on the night.
From the opening moments of the game, Fernandes asserted himself as the heartbeat of Manchester United. Wearing the captain’s armband, the Portuguese midfielder dictated the rhythm of play, constantly demanding the ball and pushing his teammates forward.
His movement between the lines caused Brighton persistent problems, and his ability to unlock space with clever passes and quick decision-making kept the home side under pressure for long stretches.
Fernandes’ technical quality was evident throughout the match. He switched play with precision, threaded dangerous balls into the final third, and showed remarkable awareness under pressure.
Beyond his skill on the ball, his leadership qualities were impossible to ignore.
He was vocal, animated, and relentless—urging teammates to press higher, recover possession quickly, and maintain intensity against Brighton’s aggressive style.
Speaking after the match, Welbeck did not hide his admiration. He described Fernandes as “outstanding,” emphasizing how difficult he was to contain.
According to Welbeck, Fernandes’ vision, work rate, and hunger set him apart, making him a constant threat even when United struggled collectively.
United’s attacking moments largely flowed through Fernandes. He was involved in nearly every meaningful move, either as the creator or the finisher.
His intelligence in finding pockets of space stretched Brighton’s defensive structure, while his willingness to take responsibility in crucial areas underlined his importance to the team.
What impressed Welbeck most, however, was Fernandes’ commitment without the ball.
Despite being United’s main creative force, he tracked back tirelessly, supported his defenders, and disrupted Brighton’s buildup whenever possible.
This all-action display reinforced Welbeck’s view that Fernandes is not just a luxury player, but a complete midfielder.
Although Brighton mounted a strong fightback and eventually secured the win, Fernandes’ influence lingered long after the final whistle.
Welbeck summed it up succinctly, describing him as a “match-winner” capable of changing any game with his intensity and quality.
As the season moved toward its decisive stages, Fernandes’ performance served as a reminder of why he remains one of Manchester United’s most vital figures and why even opposing captains cannot ignore his impact.
