Manchester United Achieves First for 2023 Without Bruno Fernandes Against Newcastle

Manchester United Wins Without Bruno Fernandes

Manchester United secured a 1–0 victory against Newcastle, marking their first Premier League win without Bruno Fernandes since March 2022. This result demonstrated their ability to perform even without their key player.

Fernandes missed the match due to a hamstring injury, adding to a list of absentees that included Matthijs de Ligt, Harry Maguire, Casemiro, Luke Shaw, Mason Mount, and Kobbie Mainoo.

The team also lost Bryan Mbeumo, Amad Diallo, and Noussair Mazraoui to international duty. Despite these challenges, the squad showed resilience when it counted.

Patrick Dorgu, playing as an inverted right winger, scored the match’s only goal with a well-placed shot that excited the Old Trafford crowd. Goalkeeper Senne Lammens excelled in defense, facing 16 shots and achieving the team’s second clean sheet of the season.

This victory also marked a tactical success for coach Ruben Amorim, who switched to a back four for the first time since his arrival, giving the team better defensive structure and pressuring Newcastle into wider positions.

Ruben Amorim’s Team Shows Strength and Balance

After the match, Amorim highlighted the unity that helped his team through the second half. In an interview with ESPN, he mentioned that the players “suffered together” and praised their defensive efforts for maintaining the clean sheet. “If we always have this spirit, we will win many games,” he stated.

With only 33% possession, this was United’s lowest share in a Premier League win since January 2023 when they faced Manchester City.

Still, they made the most of their opportunities. Manuel Ugarte played a crucial role in midfield, while young Jack Fletcher made a positive impact after coming on for Mason Mount at halftime.

Each player understood their responsibilities, and the younger ones responded with impressive maturity. For United, this victory signified more than just three points.

It demonstrated their capability to perform without Fernandes while effectively managing key moments. With the team now sitting fifth in the table, this match has sparked optimism for more consistent performances in the season ahead.