Legia Coach: Fernandes Stunned by Man Utd's Sale of Young Star
Prince Jean
Oct 12, 2024
Legia Warsaw's Coach Reveals Bruno Fernandes is Surprised by Manchester United's Disposal of Up-and-Coming Star. Credit:gettyimages
Legia Warsaw's head coach Goncalo Feio has revealed that Bruno Fernandes is "surprised" by Manchester United's decision to part ways with promising talent Maxi Oyedele.
The Red Devils made a number of moves in the summer, with big name departures including Mason Greenwood and Scott McTominay. However, Oyedele's move to Legia Warsaw, for a fee of less than £500,000, went unnoticed.
Having been heavily favored in pre-season, the Salford-born midfielder has decided to leave Old Trafford in search of more regular first-team opportunities, a decision that seems to be a good one. So far this season, the 19-year-old has come into his own, making four big league appearances for Legia, including a major Europa League appearance.
Fernandes has expressed his surprise at United's willingness to let the Poland under-21 international leave, Feio reported, citing his positive attitude in training and pre-season games. After seeing his team beat Real Betis in the European Championship, Feio said: “After the match we met with Gornik, I said that we spoke with a player destined to represent the Polish national team. Little did I know that he would be called two days later. Oyedele's quality of play, his character to keep possession and his tactical awareness when dribbling or playing are key factors.
Bruno also expressed his surprise at United's decision to sell him, given Oyedele's performance in the previous season. His level of play is closely related to his success in the midfield. His physical preparation, skill and ability to use his body well are top notch. While the fans and perhaps the press like to see what he can do in football, Maxi brings an important body to us, an important thing in football.
"It is clear that his current status is supported by those around him, who believe in him and give him the support he needs to shine. It is our duty to promote his development. Football in Poland has a lot to gain from his talent."
In contrast, Fernandes has struggled to find his rhythm at the start of the season, drawing criticism as Manchester United currently sit 14th in the Premier League table.
Former midfielder Jason McAteer has called on Fernandes to lead by example in these difficult times and insists the captain must show maturity. Speaking to Gambling Zone, McAteer said:
"Bruno Fernandes is a fantastic talent but at the moment he seems to be missing. I want to see him not only perform but also show leadership"
Manchester United is in a state of chaos, and in such a situation your captain needs to show the required leadership. His anger was a problem; being sent to the back-court is not the way a captain should conduct himself.
"The situation at Manchester United is difficult. They started the season badly. To be honest, I am sorry for the performance and behavior of Fernandes. The captain of a team known as Manchester United should behave in a way that suits his role, and so far he has failed to do so with his behavior and actions his, for me, the biggest disappointment of the premier league so far"
