Ex-Liverpool star tells Amorim how crucial Bruno Fernandes decision can transform Man United

Former Liverpool striker John Aldridge had criticised Bruno Fernandes’s leadership qualities, calling on Ruben Amorim to strip the Portugal international of his captaincy. 

The retired prolific striker who played for Real Sociedad in LALIGA believes that the former Sporting Lisbon midfielder has a poor attitude unbecoming of a leader.

Bruno became Manchester United’s captain in the summer of 2023, after Erik ten Hag stripped Harry Maguire of the title.

The Portuguese has led the Red Devils to the FA Cup and EFL Cup, but his time as captain has also coincided with Manchester United's two worst finishes in Premier League history, 8th and 15th. 

Bruno is a passionate footballer who wears his heart on his sleeve. His captaincy style has been subject to criticisms by club legends like Roy Keane, and now, Aldridge shares a similar opinion after a recent episode between Bruno Fernandes and a referee. 

Fernandes skied a penalty attempt against Fulham after going off at referee Chris Kavanagh for inadvertently bumping against him. 

Aldridge believes he made a mountain out of a molehill, which led him to miss the chance. He also said that it was a theme in Bruno's captaincy, arguing with referees, and hence posited that he should be stripped of the title. 

"Manchester United would be a better team without Bruno Fernandes as the captain,” he said, per Goal. 

“When you have a club captain with an attitude like Fernandes, especially considering the previous leaders at the club that have been and gone, it’s slanderous to such a great football club. 

“He’s very impetuous and childish; I can’t believe he’s never been sent off! If I was a referee, I’d book him every time he moaned or whinged.