Man Utd Player Ratings: Fernandes Struggles in Fulham Draw

Man Utd Player Ratings: Fernandes Misses as United Held by Fulham

Man Utd player ratings are under the spotlight after the Red Devils failed to secure their first Premier League win of the season, drawing 1-1 with Fulham at Craven Cottage. Bruno Fernandes’ off-day proved costly, while Leny Yoro’s dynamic debut was a rare positive for Erik ten Hag’s side.

First Half: Missed Opportunities Haunt United

Manchester United began with an energetic approach, showing intent from the opening whistle. Matheus Cunha nearly put the visitors ahead, but his effort struck the post before Fulham goalkeeper Bernd Leno made a crucial save. The Red Devils’ best chance to seize control came when Mason Mount was tripped in the box by Calvin Bassey, earning a penalty. However, Bruno Fernandes fired the spot-kick high over the bar, missing a golden opportunity to settle nerves and put United in command.

Leny Yoro Impresses on Debut

Despite the frustration, one bright spot was Leny Yoro, whose physical presence and composure brought stability to the United backline. Yoro was involved in United’s breakthrough, challenging Bassey and redirecting a header that deflected off Rodrigo Muniz into Fulham’s net. Though some controversy surrounded the goal, as Fulham appealed for a foul on Bassey, the own goal stood, giving Manchester United a deserved lead.

Bruno Fernandes Flops as Fulham Hit Back

Ten Hag’s men could not build on their advantage. Fulham remained lively, with their midfield creating sustained pressure. Fernandes, already under scrutiny for his penalty miss, failed to track Emile Smith Rowe’s late run into the box. The Fulham substitute made an immediate impact, scoring with his first touch in the 73rd minute to level the scores. This lapse marked another disappointment for Fernandes, who struggled to influence the game throughout.

United’s Late Push Falls Short

In the closing stages, Manchester United threw bodies forward, with Alejandro Garnacho and Marcus Rashford seeking a winner. Yet, Fulham’s defensive discipline and Leno’s confident goalkeeping repelled United’s advances. Anthony Martial’s introduction added energy, but clear chances were few and far between. The Red Devils’ frustration was palpable as the final whistle confirmed yet another missed opportunity.

Full Man Utd Player Ratings vs Fulham

• Andre Onana (6/10): Solid when called upon, but little chance with Smith Rowe’s goal.
• Diogo Dalot (6/10): Provided width but lacked a cutting edge in attack.
• Leny Yoro (8/10): Impressive debut, assured defensively, and key in United’s goal.
• Lisandro Martinez (6/10): Commitment was clear, though outpaced at times.
• Luke Shaw (7/10): Reliable on the left, created several overlapping runs.
• Casemiro (6/10): Steady in midfield, but unable to dictate tempo.
• Mason Mount (7/10): Won the penalty and linked play well, but faded late on.
• Bruno Fernandes (5/10): Missed a vital penalty and lost his marker for Fulham’s goal.
• Alejandro Garnacho (6/10): Flashes of promise, but lacked end product.
• Marcus Rashford (6/10): Threatened on the break, but final decisions let him down.
• Matheus Cunha (7/10): Unlucky not to score, worked hard up front.
• Substitutes: Martial (6), Eriksen (6), Varane (6), Pellistri (5)

What This Draw Means for Man Utd

This result leaves Manchester United still searching for their first league victory of the campaign. The performance revealed both promise and lingering issues—Leny Yoro’s authoritative display bodes well for the defense, but lack of clinical finishing and costly lapses, typified by Fernandes’ struggles, remain a concern.

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Opinion: United Must Address Their Mentality

While individual errors cost Manchester United against Fulham, the bigger worry is their inability to capitalize on momentum. Bruno Fernandes’ penalty miss was symptomatic of a team lacking confidence at crucial moments. If United wish to challenge for honors, rediscovering their clinical edge and fostering greater leadership on the pitch is essential. The emergence of Leny Yoro offers hope, but a collective step up is needed if United are to avoid another season of frustration.