In order to help Manchester United’s chances of qualifying for the Champions League and snap Aston Villa‘s 10-game winning streak, Bruno Fernandes scored his 100th league goal of his career.
Six minutes before halftime, Fernandes pounced after Emiliano Martinez deflected Marcus Rashford’s attempt in his direction.
The hosts, who had already come close through Marcel Sabitzer, now earned a well-deserved victory.
Tottenham comeback against United to salvage a point
Casemiro, a United midfielder, also struck the crossbar and narrowly missed with a second-half shot.
However, a late corner that had been flicked on almost resulted in a close-range equalizer from Ezri Konza. However, the Villa defender was unable to quickly adjust his body position in time to steer the ball goalward, and United were able to clear.
With Villa currently nine points behind the Red Devils after missing the opportunity to close the deficit to just three points, the outcome assures United have a sizable edge over the teams vying for a top-four spot.
Sadio Mane set to return Premier League
The significance of Fernandes to United cannot be overstated.
With the signing of the Portuguese playmaker from Sporting Lisbon in 2020, United was able to turn around a disastrous season and finish third.
Since then, he has carried a significant portion of his team’s offensive threat, remaining reliable for the course of a club career that has lasted 178 games.
He continued to irritate Villa supporters—and some of his own—even during this game by collapsing too quickly or whining about fictitious fouls. But it’s admirable that he was willing to play through the discomfort.
Tottenham comeback against United to salvage a point
Anyone who witnessed him hobbling off the field after a first-half collision in the FA Cup semifinal against Brighton was shocked he played through extra time.
The 28-year-old’s tenacity is evident by the fact that he started both of the Premier League games the following week.
Fernandes’ eleventh goal of the year demonstrated his will.
Manchester United ready to make their move for 21-year-old Brazilian defender
When Martinez pushed the ball directly into the area that Fernandes was running into, he was quicker to react than Alex Moreno and finished from an acute angle because he anticipated the ball might run loose as soon as Rashford went for goal.
The United manager Erik ten Hag stated, “He’s so tough.” “His captaincy was questioned a couple of weeks ago.
It’s crazy since he leads by example and is such a powerful figure. Along with his intelligence, he also brings a lot of energy to the team.
Manchester City thrash Arsenal to take control in the league
“But also his tenacity, desire, and fortitude, so I believe that as a team, we are overjoyed.
“We need such players if you want to win games and trophies,” the coach said.
