Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has delivered a crushing blow to fans hoping for a swift return of captain Bruno Fernandes, emphatically ruling the midfielder out of Tuesday night's Premier League fixture against Wolverhampton Wanderers.
Amorim's definitive verdict on Fernandes
Speaking at his pre-match press conference ahead of the trip to Molineux, Amorim left no room for speculation regarding the availability of his star Portuguese playmaker. Fernandes is battling a hamstring injury that forced him to miss United's 1-0 victory over Newcastle United on Boxing Day.
"Bruno was already saying that he needs to train, but we don't know," Amorim stated. "No chance he is going to play against Wolves. No chance. You can write that." The double declaration underscores the club's caution with one of their most influential players, who has contributed five goals and seven assists in 17 league appearances this season.
Leadership from the sidelines
Despite being sidelined, Amorim was full of praise for Fernandes's ongoing influence and dedication, even joking that the 31-year-old might be eyeing his position. The manager highlighted how Fernandes's commitment extends beyond the pitch, noting his habit of observing training sessions even while injured.
"He cannot be that guy that [when he] is not playing, he's not talking and speaking," Amorim added. "He's always speaking. That's why he's the captain. Every time he makes recovery from the [previous] game, he is the guy that is going to watch the other guys training... He's a great leader."
When asked if this behaviour continued during his current injury spell, Amorim confirmed: "Yeah, all the time. He's the guy that is watching the training. Even after treatment, he's going there. I don't know if he wants my job or not, but he's a leader. The guy is a leader."
Mounting injury concerns for United
The absence of Fernandes is compounded by a significant injury list that threatens to severely deplete Amorim's options. The manager provided a worrying update on several other key players ahead of the crucial Premier League encounter.
Mason Mount's fitness is in doubt after he was forced off during the Newcastle win. Youngster Kobbie Mainoo has also been ruled out, while central defensive duo Matthijs de Ligt and Harry Maguire are confirmed absentees.
"I don't know how Mase is going to be for that game," Amorim admitted regarding Mount. "I think Kobbie Mainoo is not going to be ready. Bruno is not going to be ready. I think Matt is not going to be ready. Harry is not going to be ready. So, I think we are not going to have more players."
This injury crisis presents a major challenge for Amorim as he seeks to build momentum following the Boxing Day victory and navigate a busy festive fixture schedule in the Premier League.
