Bruno Fernandes Injury Update Reveals Crucial Return Date for Man Utd

Manchester United skipper Bruno Fernandes may recover in time for January's Manchester derby, according to fresh reports.

Fernandes suffered an injury near the end of the first half during United's 2-1 loss to Aston Villa last Sunday. The captain played through the issue—notably avoiding a challenge before Morgan Rogers scored the opener—but was substituted at halftime. Manager Ruben Amorim initially suggested Fernandes would be sidelined for "a while" with a muscle problem.

This uncertain prognosis caused concern among Manchester supporters. Fernandes has missed just three matches during his six-year tenure at Old Trafford. Despite some board members allegedly considering selling the 31-year-old midfielder, he remains the driving force behind this unpredictable United squad.

New information about Fernandes's rehabilitation has emerged. The Times and other publications report that the midfielder's injury isn't as severe as initially thought, with the club reportedly "optimistic" he'll return for the Manchester City clash on Jan. 17.

However, this recovery schedule suggests Fernandes will miss five matches.

The Man Utd Games Bruno Fernandes Could Miss

The packed holiday fixture list means any injury, even a month-long absence, covers numerous matches. If Fernandes had been injured in February, when United might have 12 days between games, the impact would be less significant.

Still, United's upcoming opponents provide reason for optimism during Fernandes's absence.

Boxing Day brings Newcastle United, who have struggled terribly away from home. Eddie Howe's team has collected only six points from eight road trips—worse than relegation-threatened West Ham United—managing just seven away goals. Manchester City's Erling Haaland has netted eight times on his travels this campaign.

Amorim's team faces what should be a straightforward home encounter against struggling Wolverhampton Wanderers before a tougher New Year visit to Elland Road.

Promoted Burnley will host United next, followed by an FA Cup third round home tie versus Brighton & Hove Albion.

The Red Devils have rarely played without Fernandes since his 2020 arrival. He's missed only 17 of the club's last 325 matches. When the Portuguese midfielder has been unavailable, United's record shows eight wins, three draws, and six defeats. Those executives who wanted Fernandes sold will now witness an extended preview of what United might look like without him next season.