What has Bruno promised Martial for 2023?

Both players started the 2-0 win over Burnley in the Carabao Cup upon domestic football's resumption, with Fernandes skippering the side and Martial going close to scoring when forcing a fine stop out of Bailey Peacock-Farrell.

Their on-field chemistry has always been impressive and fans enjoyed Bruno catching up with his colleague on the plane, en route to the summer tour, and hearing Martial demanding "assists" from his pal.

The pair combined to good effect in the win over Aston Villa in the previous round of the competition, with Fernandes setting up the striker for one of the goals in the 4-2 triumph, and it is hoped they can strike fear into the likes of Nottingham Forest, Wolves, Bournemouth and Everton during this upcoming period.

"We always had that connection between us and we both just have to keep working to improve it," our no.9 told us in an exclusive interview.

“Well, that [assists] is something we always talk about. As he left to take part in the World Cup, I was telling him to make sure that he comes home in good shape. And he would say, of course, lots of assists are coming your way. That’s one of the things about sport, that chat.”

Martial understands it is key to have the right combinations all over the pitch, from all positions, as United look to click further under Erik ten Hag, with the year drawing to a close.

“It’s very important to have good connections on the pitch," he stressed. "You always want to know where your team-mate is and where he’s going to run into space.

"For example, he [Bruno] knows very well that I might go to take the ball at someone’s feet, and he will run deep. It’s that kind of little connection that helps you get to know the playing style of your partner. One to evolve and, two, to help the team improve.”