Manchester United’s superb form has coincided with the exit of Cristiano Ronaldo, who recently joined Saudi Arabian side Al Nassr.
Bruno Fernandes insists he was not taking a swipe at Cristiano Ronaldo when describing Manchester United as “a proper team” following the superstar forward’s exit.
Portugal international Fernandes scored a controversial equalizer against Manchester City on Saturday before Marcus Rashford sealed a 2-1 victory for United at Old Trafford.
Erik ten Haga’s side have now won nine games in a row – seven of them since Ronaldo’s departure in November – their best league run since January 2017.
It’s been quite the turnaround for United, who lost their opening two games against Brentford and Brighton & Hove Albion but now sit in third place.
Speaking to BT Sport after United’s last win, Fernandes said: “We used to be individuals, now we are a team. You can see a proper team working for each other.”
The comments were seen as a dig at fellow international Ronaldo, but Fernandes took to Instagram later on Saturday to clarify what he meant.
“I know it’s hard to see Manchester United doing well, but I have nothing but good things to say about us,” he wrote. “Don’t use my name to attack Cristiano.
“Cristiano has been part of our team for half the season and as I’ve said in many interviews, since [the win against] Liverpool everyone has been amazing and behaved like a proper team.
Fernandes, who now has four goals and four assists in 26 games this season, added: “You see the results. We’re moving on!”
Ronaldo joined Saudi Arabian side Al Nassr earlier this month after his United contract was terminated by mutual consent following an explosive conversation with Piers Morgan.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner is yet to make his debut for his new club due to a two-match domestic ban carried over from his time at United.
The Ten Hag form team are back in Premier League action on Wednesday with a trip to Crystal Palace.