Man United vs Leeds shows role shift for second Ruben Amorim favourite, besides Amad

With the arrivals of Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo, it wasn’t a surprise to see Bruno Fernandes trialled in a deeper midfield position against Leeds.

Fernandes has always been at his best closer to goal, where his passing can unlock tight defences. But with United now needing more ball progression from deeper areas, the shift makes sense.

This is where the new signings come in. With Mbeumo and Cunha set to operate as dual No. 10s, Fernandes is expected to play deeper, providing structure and linking play from the back.

Fernandes won’t have to cover as much ground or carry as much creative weight. He can pick his moments to join attacks rather than being involved in every phase.

The change might help him stay fresher over the course of the season while still letting him influence matches in key moments.

Ruben Amorim shows confidence in Fernandes’ role change

Amorim’s belief in Fernandes’ deeper role was clear. Even when Collyer struggled to make an impact higher up the pitch, the manager didn’t waver.

Instead, he moved Amad into a more advanced position and had Collyer take on the wing-back duties.

The obvious switch would have been to move Fernandes forward and drop Collyer back, but Amorim stuck with his plan.

It’s clear that he wants Fernandes to get as much time as possible in that deeper role since it’s where he’ll be playing regularly this season.

As his partnership with Cunha develops, United could have a really balanced mix of grit and skill in their attack.