How will Bruno's red card impact United?

Friday 04 October 2024 09:00

Bruno Fernandes will miss Manchester United's next Europa League match after being sent off in Thursday's away draw to FC Porto.

The captain played his part in an encouraging start for United, which saw us take a 2-0 lead at the Estadio Dragao. But the home side fought their way back into the contest, and after they went ahead early in the second half, Fernandes was dismissed for a second bookable offence in the final 10 minutes in his homeland.

Fernandes had attempted to connect with an enticing Alejandro Garnacho cross, but was instead adjudged to have caught an opposition defender with a high boot.

Porto looked to set to hold on for all three points, but United were able to rescue a point late on, thanks to a stoppage-time header from substitute Harry Maguire.

Highlights: FC Porto v United Video

Highlights: FC Porto v United

HIGHLIGHTS | View the major moments from United's away clash with FC Porto, in the UEFA Europa League...

Our next European test will come away to Fenerbahce later in the month, on Thursday 24 October (20:00 BST), following the October international break.

Bruno's dismissal against FC Porto means he will be ineligible for our trip to Turkey in three weeks' time, where there is a reunion with our former manager Jose Mourinho in store.

The 30-year-old will be back in contention for European action in early November, when we host PAOK at Old Trafford for our fourth league phase outing of the Europa League campaign.

Although Fernandes will miss out in Turkey, his red card will not impact on his potential involvement in representing the Reds in other competitions.

 

The experienced midfielder remains in contention to play when we travel to Villa Park on Sunday, for a Premier League test against Unai Emery's Aston Villa.

Fernandes had been set to miss three Premier League games after seeing red against Tottenham Hotspur at Old Trafford last Sunday, but a successful appeal overturned that punishment, making our no.8 a potential starter this weekend.

Recommended: