United keep Bruno Fernandes amid Amorim rebuild

Manchester United faces questions over Bruno Fernandes's future as Ruben Amorim reshapes the midfield and plots a potential rebuild.

United keep Bruno Fernandes amid Amorim midfield reshuffle

Manchester United have spent to refresh the attack this summer, bringing in Bryan Mbeumo, Matheus Cunha and Benjamin Sesko. Diego Leon has joined to add depth at left wing-back, and a goalkeeper candidate, Senne Lammens, is expected to compete with Andre Onana. Fernandes's long term future remains unclear and it is not obvious how active United will be before the Monday deadline.

Amorim has set up his midfield with Fernandes and Casemiro in front of a back three. When Arsenal and Fulham were faced, changes included Fernandes playing deeper and a brief spell with Manuel Ugarte, who was then replaced by Mason Mount. Mainoo started the season but now appears to be fighting for his place, with The Athletic reporting United have considered selling him this window. The club has also been looking at alternatives to Fernandes all summer. Fernandes, who turns 31 next month, remains a key figure for now, but the plan seems to be moving toward a longer term solution for the midfield.

This season shows United balancing short term results with a longer term rebuild. The sale of a young midfielder would signal a clear shift away from depending on a single star, while a new look midfield could bring fresh dynamism if the plan comes together. The clash between immediate needs and future potential is a central tension for Ruben Amorim as he tests different midfield partnerships.

Fans and analysts will watch how much patience the club shows. If Fernandes stays, the question becomes can he adapt to a deeper role while a successor surfaces, or will the club stumble into another year of midseason disruption as plans mature.

Highlights

The window will test United on what direction they want to take in the near future.