Bruno Fernandes is loved by Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag and it is not only because of the Portuguese star’s immense skillset.
Fernandes is a virtual ever-present for the Red Devils. He played more first-team minutes than any other footballer in Europe last season, starting in 58 matches across all competitions for Ten Hag’s side – with his stamina and engine unmatched.
This explains United’s interest in signing Fiorentina midfielder Sofyan Amrabat – the Moroccan international who previously played under Ten Hag at FC Utrecht. United have opened talks over a possible deal for the midfielder this summer to bolster their ranks.
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Whenever coaching the holding midfielder in the Eredivisie, Ten Hag was not shy of explaining his qualities and why he rated him so highly. Amrabat’s longevity and ability to make himself available for selection and give his all on the pitch were highly valued.
As quoted by Dutch outlet AD, Ten Hag said: "Souf is imperturbable, unyielding. That is an additional quality. He will and must play, even if he has to go over five walls or through five walls. And even if he has to fight for it for weeks or months."
Paying closer attention, this is remarkably similar to Ten Hag’s assessment of Fernandes. The Portuguese star has captained United in multiple games under the boss with Harry Maguire not in the team – showing how highly his skillset is valued.
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After April’s Premier League clash against Tottenham, Ten Hag explained how Fernandes was carrying an injury but did everything within his power to make himself available for the game by making the necessary sacrifices to benefit the team.
Ten Hag said: "He [Fernandes] absolutely did not wish to miss this game – and every game. I think he is the example, that you have to suffer, have to decide if you wish to sacrifice, if you want to play or don’t play, if at this level you want to achieve something."
The United boss prioritises the benefits of the team above that of any individual, stressing that all players must fit into a system and make sacrifices when necessary if it is beneficial to the collective unit – with Amrabat and Fernandes fitting those profiles.
Amrabat also still has a good relationship with Ten Hag, as his brother Nordin recently revealed to ESPN. The former Watford star said: "I know that Ten Hag is charmed by my brother, he broke through under him. And they have a good relationship, so who knows."
