Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes is facing a potential absence from the Nations League match between Portugal and Norway. The midfielder has sustained a troubling injury, raising serious concern at Old Trafford.
Fernandes started in the victorious match against Wales, coming off the pitch in the dying moments of the game. He also missed Saturday's final training session with the national side.
Portugal manager Jorge Jesus admitted that Fernandes arrived in the squad already nursing an injury.
In the game against Wales, we utilised all available players, but Bruno Fernandes left the pitch with a significant issue. We will see what happens tomorrow. Experience tells me that not all players can recover in time after three days. However, the situation for Norway is the same as ours. The player who comes off the bench offers the same assurances as one who may leave the field, so that will be the basis of my decision. The medical staff have flagged these two players as concerning, but Nuno Mendes may be fit to play.
The manager further indicated that Fernandes has been concealing discomfort in recent matches for United.
Another case concerns treatment and recovery time. He is recuperating from an injury sustained at United, and he mentioned to me that he has been playing through the pain over the last three matches, which has hindered him. This was one of the factors that impacted Bruno's performance against Wales. I've spoken with him, and I prefer not to take risks in this match so he can be fully ready for the game with Denmark.
This season, Fernandes has netted four goals and provided one assist in seven matches. Michael Carrick's side has had a rocky start and currently sits in 12th place in the Premier League. Losing their captain could prove to be a severe blow for the club.
