Bruno Fernandes faced further disciplinary trouble following Manchester United’s 3-0 defeat to Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier League on Sunday. Already under scrutiny for his role in that match, Fernandes worsened his situation by receiving another red card during United’s 3-3 Europa League clash against FC Porto.
In the 82nd minute of the match, the United captain was shown a second yellow card for a high-foot challenge. This came after Fernandes had already been booked earlier in the game, also for a high-foot incident.
On both occasions, the Portugal international was trying to make contact with the ball in attacking situations. In the second instance, Fernandes attempted to reach the end of a cross into the box, raising his foot high in an effort to make contact with the ball.
However, Porto defender Nehuen Perez intervened, lowering his head to clear the ball with a header. Perez was struck by Fernandes’ raised boot and went down holding his face, prompting the referee to issue a second yellow card, followed by a red.
Former Premier League goalkeeper Paul Robinson weighed in on the incident while speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live. He noted that although Fernandes’ focus was on the ball, the challenge was dangerous and left the referee with no other option but to send him off. “Bruno Fernandes is frustrated,” Robinson said. “He went in high with his foot, and it’s a dangerous play. In his defence, he’s watching the ball, but when you go in like that, the referee doesn’t have a choice.”
This red card compounds the issues for Fernandes, who is already under criticism following Manchester United’s recent struggles. His suspension in the Europa League will likely be another setback for his team, adding to the mounting pressure on the United skipper to manage his disciplinary record better and lead by example.
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