He has everything a manager wants in a player,Ten Hag should not play Him out of position again”: Rio Ferdinand was supremely impressed by this United player vs City, Ten Hag shouldn’t change his role

Manchester United may have lost to Manchester City, but they can take pride in their commendable performance against their rivals. Despite the defeat, United showed several encouraging signs, matching Pep Guardiola’s side in determination and skill, which bodes well for the upcoming season.

A standout aspect was the performance of captain Bruno Fernandes. Playing in a less familiar false nine role, Fernandes demonstrated his versatility and influence. Although he didn’t score or assist, his work ethic and creativity were clear, with his off-the-ball movement and daring play keeping City’s defense alert.

Former United defender Rio Ferdinand praised Fernandes, describing his performance as “majestic.” Ferdinand emphasized that Fernandes excels when playing in advanced positions, where he can be most effective.

United manager Erik ten Hag used a system similar to the one that won them the FA Cup, with Fernandes and Mason Mount rotating in attack while Marcus Rashford and Amad provided width. This fluid setup allowed Fernandes to shine, even in an unfamiliar role.

Ferdinand, on his podcast “Rio Reacts,” argued that Fernandes should continue to play higher up the field, as his passing precision and ability to take dangerous shots are unmatched.

As the match progressed, Fernandes became more influential, testing City’s defense and showing his footballing intelligence. His ability to drop deeper when needed and contribute to both the buildup and the attack further highlighted his versatility.

Fernandes thrived on the freedom of the false nine role, showcasing his attacking sharpness, defensive discipline, and vision. His proactive approach and deep understanding of the game make him a key figure for United this season, especially if he continues to be deployed in positions that allow him to maximize his impact.