Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has faced widespread criticism online following a viral video showing him attempting to feign injury to win a free-kick during United’s match against Fulham on Saturday.
The incident occurred late in the game shortly after Harry Maguire scored the equalising goal for United.
After receiving the ball and advancing towards Fulham’s defense, Fernandes took a shot from distance and then dramatically fell to the ground, clutching his ankle as if in pain.
However, replays revealed that there was no contact with Fulham’s Lukic, and Fernandes quickly got up and resumed playing, even gesturing for the ball from his teammate.
This is the captain of Manchester United ?pic.twitter.com/rq4lBqLrSQ
— IG: @90minstweets (@90minstweets) February 25, 2024
There’s kids watching this grown man and thinking he’s an example in the game. He’s an absolute embarrassment to the sport. ? https://t.co/1TTK103Zy7
— Scott Marshall (@Marshall96Scott) February 25, 2024
The footage sparked outrage among fans, who criticised Fernandes for his actions, labelling him a ‘cheat’ and an ’embarrassment.’
Many expressed their disappointment, suggesting that having a captain behave in such a manner reflects poorly on the team’s integrity and sportsmanship.
The new backroom structure should be looking at that and decide it is time to replace Fernandes. He is 29 now and to get a little money back on him would be just. A younger number 8 is needed.