
Bruno Fernandes Fires Warning to Manchester United Teammates Ahead of Crucial Athletic Club Semi-Final
As the pressure mounts on Manchester United’s tumultuous season, Bruno Fernandes has stepped up once again – not just with words, but with a clear challenge to his teammates. Speaking in the wake of another frustrating Premier League outing, the United captain made it clear: the time for excuses is over. Ahead of the club’s pivotal Europa League semi-final first leg against Athletic Club, Bruno Fernandes demanded more intensity, more bravery, and crucially, “more anger” when fighting for every ball on the pitch.
United’s 2-2 draw against Bournemouth over the weekend – a match where they had the chances but almost none of the ruthlessness needed – exposed many of the issues that have plagued the Red Devils this season. And with a place in the Europa League final on the line, Bruno Fernandes’ message was blunt: improve now, or face an even bleaker future.
Man Utd’s Draw Against Bournemouth Sparks Fresh Concerns

Rasmus Hojlund equalised in a game Man Utd dominated / Dan Mullan/GettyImages
United’s draw at the Vitality Stadium was symptomatic of a campaign that has consistently failed to catch fire. Despite dominating large spells of the game, Manchester United once again struggled with efficiency and intensity.
“It’s not enough,” Bruno Fernandes told Sky Sports candidly. “We need to have more anger when we’re competing for the ball.”
The 2-2 scoreline was salvaged only by Rasmus Hojlund’s dramatic stoppage-time goal, but even that couldn’t mask United’s defensive frailties and lack of sharpness in the final third. Against Wolverhampton Wanderers the previous week, a similar story unfolded – chances created, points dropped.
Now, the clock is ticking. Bruno Fernandes knows full well that Thursday’s clash against Athletic Club at San Mames could define their entire season. Lose over two legs, and not only would a European trophy slip away, but so too would the opportunity for Champions League football next year — and everything that financially and reputationally comes with it.
Bruno Fernandes Demands ‘More Anger’ from United Teammates
In his typical no-nonsense style, Bruno Fernandes didn’t sugarcoat the issues he sees in the squad’s mentality.
“We need to be more aggressive,” he insisted. “We need to want the ball more than the defenders do. It’s not just about technical skills, it’s about attitude. You have to be willing to win every duel, every loose ball.”
The Portuguese midfielder stressed that success isn’t just built on beautiful play, but on a relentless hunger that must be visible in every single action — in training and in games.
“Sometimes you get one chance and score. Other times you create 10 or 15 and don’t,” he continued. “But the common factor has to be the desire — to get bodies in the box, to create danger, and to be brave in the final third.”
It’s a rousing rallying cry, but one that also acknowledges reality. This isn’t the first time Bruno Fernandes has spoken openly about United’s shortcomings this season. But if anything, the stakes are now higher than ever.
Why Europa League Glory Is Vital for Man Utd’s Future
Manchester United’s season has teetered on the edge of disaster for months now. With a disappointing domestic campaign — one that sees them scrapping for a top-six finish rather than fighting for the title — Europa League success is no longer just desirable, it’s absolutely essential.
Winning the Europa League would secure automatic qualification for next season’s Champions League, restoring a measure of pride and providing vital financial relief. The cash injection and prestige of Champions League football could be the difference between attracting top transfer targets this summer and falling further behind Europe’s elite.
Without it, United would face a barren 2025/26 season without any European football at all. And at a time when the club is operating under strict financial controls and grappling with significant squad rebuilding needs, every penny counts.
As Bruno Fernandes put it: “We have to focus not just on winning games, but on securing our future.”
The importance of the Europa League is not lost on United’s players, coaching staff, or the fans. Defeat would amplify calls for sweeping changes, from the dugout to the boardroom.
Athletic Club: A Tough Opponent Standing in Their Way
Athletic Club is no walkover. They are a disciplined, physical side, brimming with energy and capable of exploiting United’s known weaknesses.
Playing the first leg at San Mames – one of the most intimidating arenas in Spanish football – will be a stern test of United’s mental and physical toughness. It’s a stadium that demands bravery, resilience, and complete focus from any visiting side.
Fernandes knows this better than most: “They are very intense with quick wingers and very good in one-v-one situations. We have to be ready, not just tactically, but mentally.”
Athletic are not just another team to United. They represent the last major hurdle between redemption and ruin.
Tactical Adjustments Needed for United
One of the biggest concerns ahead of Thursday is whether United can tighten up defensively. Time and again this season, lapses in concentration and poor individual decisions have undone their good work elsewhere on the pitch.
Whether Erik ten Hag opts to tweak the lineup remains to be seen. There’s a strong case for bringing more steel to the midfield — perhaps starting Scott McTominay alongside Casemiro — and prioritizing defensive stability over expansive play.
United will also need to be much more clinical up front. Marcus Rashford, Antony, and Alejandro Garnacho must offer more cutting edge, while Bruno Fernandes himself will likely need to step up as a creative force.
The message from Bruno Fernandes is clear: nothing short of 100% focus, intensity, and fight will be enough to get past Athletic Club.
Conclusion: Now or Never for Manchester United
As Bruno Fernandes fires a warning to his teammates, the reality facing Manchester United could not be starker. Fail to show more anger, more desire, and more composure against Athletic Club, and they risk losing not just a European trophy, but the platform to rebuild their fortunes next season.
Thursday’s clash isn’t just a semi-final. It’s a defining moment for this group of players — a chance to salvage something from a chaotic season and keep alive the hopes of a brighter, more successful future.
For Bruno Fernandes and Manchester United, there are no more second chances. It’s time to fight, or face the consequences.
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