Bruno: We only think about ourselves

Thursday 25 May 2023 23:14

Manchester United midfielder Bruno Fernandes has said that the Reds’ goal was never to finish above rivals Liverpool, but to achieve our objective of getting into the Champions League.

Erik ten Hag’s side have advanced into Europe’s elite competition after besting Chelsea 4-1 in the Premier League at Old Trafford, with Liverpool six points behind in fifth spot, and only one game to go on Sunday.

Fernandes was involved in two of the Reds' goals against Frank Lampard’s side, fscoring United’s third from the penalty spot after he was brought down by Wesley Fofana in the area.

The Portuguese playmaker then teed up Marcus Rashford to score his 30th goal in all competition for United this season, with the England forward netting at the second attempt.

Speaking with Sky Sports after the game, Fernandes rejoiced in the Reds returning to the Champions League, but was clear that there is more to achieve this term, with Manchester City lying in wait in the Emirates FA Cup final.

“We know that means a lot for us," he explained. "Obviously, it is about getting our goals and completion, and we did. Obviously, we are happy for Liverpool not to be there. For us, it is not about that. It is about getting the best we can for ourselves, because we have to look after ourselves.

“It’s decent because we want more. But for what we needed this season, it’s great. We get one trophy [the Carabao Cup], the top four, which was the goal after we saw we could not go for the Premier League. And, now, it is about finishing the league well and going to the FA Cup and win[ning].”

Bruno was serenaded by the Old Trafford faithful after the game, chanting his name as he conducted the interview. The fans were incredibly vocal throughout the victory over Chelsea at the Theatre of Dreams, with chants of ‘Ole’ when passing the ball in the late stages, as well as renditions of ‘Erik ten Hag’s Red-and-White Army’ and 'We’re going to Wembley.'

The Portugal midfielder issued more praise for the United fans, claiming they have been one of the biggest factors behind the team's incredible run at Old Trafford, which has seen us claim 14 wins in 18 games at home during the 2022-23 campaign.

“They have been amazing for us," he stated. "We have won many games at home. I think it was great that they create a big atmosphere for us and they know how important they are for us. I think you can see, during the season, how important they were for many games. So, we appreciate all the effort they have been giving.”

Highlights: United v Chelsea Video

Highlights: United v Chelsea

The Reds hosted Chelsea at Old Trafford in one of the season’s most entertaining games…

After the final game of the Premier League campaign against Fulham on Sunday, United will travel to Wembley for a clash in the capital against rivals Manchester City in the FA Cup on 3 June. This will be the first time the two Manchester clubs have ever met in an FA Cup final, as Ten Hag’s men look to end City’s hopes of winning the Treble.

When asked what his thoughts were about the massive clash, Fernandes claimed that United will be up to the challenge, but insisted that we will be focusing on winning more silverware and not on ending their neighbours' own aspirations

“It is about for us, winning the trophy for us," he added. "Obviously, we have to take the trophy from someone, if you want to win it. But we are focusing on ourselves and winning games and we want to win the FA Cup. It is as simple as that. It is a great competition, it is very important here in England.

“We want to win it, just that. Obviously, we know if we win it, we ruin the option for City doing the Treble, that is important for them. But for us, as players, it is about getting another trophy.”

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