Manchester United are anxiously awaiting the results of medical tests to determine the severity of Bruno Fernandes’ hamstring injury, sustained during the 2-1 Premier League defeat to Aston Villa. The club captain was visibly uncomfortable late in the first half, briefly continued, and was withdrawn at the interval — a worrying sign for manager Ruben Amorim and United supporters alike.
Any prolonged absence for Fernandes would represent a huge setback. Since joining from Sporting Lisbon in January 2020, the Portuguese midfielder has been one of the most reliable players in the Premier League, missing just nine league games out of 221 — and only three due to injury or illness.
With United facing a demanding run of fixtures over the festive period and into January, Amorim may be forced to rethink both his personnel and tactical approach.
Why Bruno Fernandes Is So Hard to Replace
Fernandes’ importance goes beyond goals and assists. He is the engine of United’s midfield, combining creativity, defensive work rate, leadership, and relentless availability. United’s recent record without him underlines the issue: the club have lost five of the last six league matches he has missed.
Fernandes has started all 17 Premier League games in the 2025-26 season, making his potential absence even more disruptive.
United’s upcoming matches include clashes against Newcastle, Wolves, Leeds, Burnley, Manchester City, and Arsenal, meaning Amorim must find solutions quickly.
Option 1: Kobbie Mainoo – Talent Waiting for His Chance
In theory, Kobbie Mainoo is the most natural replacement. Amorim has repeatedly stated that Mainoo and Fernandes are the most similar players stylistically, capable of carrying the ball, progressing play, and operating under pressure.
However, the 20-year-old missed the Villa defeat with a calf injury and is unlikely to return immediately. Amorim has not provided a timeline for his recovery, which clouds United’s plans.
There has also been speculation — dismissed by the club — that Mainoo’s absence was linked to off-field distractions. Amorim’s public backing suggests fitness, not discipline, remains the real concern.
Option 2: Manuel Ugarte or Lisandro Martinez – Defensive Solutions
If Casemiro returns from suspension, Amorim could consider pairing him with Manuel Ugarte. Yet history offers little encouragement: United have not won any of the past nine league matches Ugarte has started — a club record surpassed only by Kleberson.
Ugarte is primarily a ball-winner and lacks Fernandes’ creativity, making the midfield more solid but less inventive.
Another emergency option is Lisandro Martinez, who replaced Fernandes at half-time against Villa. Although naturally a defender, Martinez impressed with his intensity and distribution. Amorim previously said he would only use Martinez in midfield “in an emergency” — and this situation arguably qualifies.
Still, neither player offers the attacking spark Fernandes provides.
Option 3: Mason Mount – Form and Flexibility
Mason Mount could emerge as a key figure. Signed initially as a versatile midfielder, Mount has shown improved form recently, scoring against Crystal Palace and Wolves.
While Amorim prefers Mount as a number 10, deploying him deeper alongside Casemiro could allow Joshua Zirkzee to operate further forward. Mount’s energy, pressing ability, and passing range fit Amorim’s system, and his tactical flexibility — including spells at wing-back — makes him an appealing option.
Option 4: Jack Fletcher – A Bold Youth Call
Teenager Jack Fletcher, son of former United midfielder Darren Fletcher, made his debut at Villa Park and impressed with his energy and composure. The 18-year-old England Under-19 international has a strong passing range and tactical awareness.
However, throwing Fletcher into a starting role during a congested Premier League schedule would be a significant gamble, particularly given the pressure surrounding United’s recent form.
Tactical Shift? Fernandes Injury May Force System Change
Since arriving at Old Trafford, Amorim has been committed to his 3-2-4-1 system, rarely deviating from his philosophy. The structure relies heavily on two midfielders who can cover ground, win second balls, and play direct passes in transition.
Fernandes and Casemiro perfectly embody those demands. Without Fernandes, Amorim may be forced to adapt his system, possibly moving to a back four and a midfield three.
Such a change could benefit Mainoo upon his return, as Amorim has previously stated the youngster is better suited to a three-man midfield.
“If we play with three midfielders, Kobbie will have more minutes,” Amorim admitted — a hint that tactical flexibility could soon be required.
A Defining Test for Amorim and United
Bruno Fernandes’ injury could be a defining moment in Ruben Amorim’s early tenure at Manchester United. Whether through internal solutions, tactical evolution, or a combination of both, how United cope without their captain will shape their season.
Replacing Fernandes directly may be impossible — but adapting collectively could be United’s only way forward.
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