Bruno Fernandes scored a hat-trick, including two penalties, as Manchester United overcame a shaky start to defeat 10-man Real Sociedad 4-1 at Old Trafford, securing a place in the Europa League quarter-finals. The victory sets up a clash with French side Lyon and offers a much-needed positive note amidst a turbulent week for the club.
United, needing a win to keep alive their hopes of silverware and European qualification under manager Ruben Amorim, conceded an early goal. Mikel Oyarzabal scored from the penalty spot after Matthijs de Ligt brought him down in the area.
However, the hosts responded quickly. Fernandes equalized with a penalty of his own just six minutes later, after Igor Zubeldia fouled Rasmus Hojlund. Fernandes then put United ahead with another penalty, awarded for a foul on Patrick Dorgu by Aritz Elustondo.
Real Sociedad’s hopes of a comeback were severely diminished midway through the second half when Jon Aramburu was sent off for a professional foul on Dorgu.
Fernandes completed his second hat-trick for the club with a low finish across goal, and Diogo Dalot added a fourth in stoppage time to seal a convincing victory.
Fernandes Leads Amidst Off-Field Turmoil
The match took place against a backdrop of off-field uncertainty at Manchester United. Protests against the Glazer family’s ownership continued before Sunday’s draw with Arsenal. Concerns about the club’s financial situation were raised by minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, who warned of potential financial difficulties without cost-cutting measures, although chief executive Omar Berrada downplayed these concerns. Ratcliffe had also publicly criticised some of United’s players.
Amidst this turmoil, Bruno Fernandes delivered a captain’s performance. Despite previous criticism from former United captain Roy Keane regarding his leadership qualities, Fernandes stepped up when it mattered most. He displayed composure under pressure to convert both penalties and provided a constant attacking threat.
Zirkzee Shows Signs of Improvement
Striker Joshua Zirkzee also produced an encouraging performance. After a difficult start to his Manchester United career following a £36.5 million move from Bologna, the Dutchman showed resilience and improved work rate.
Zirkzee, who was jeered by home fans after being substituted early in a defeat to Newcastle on December 30th, has shown mental fortitude. He was a vocal presence on the pitch and almost created a second goal for United with a skillful run and cross for Hojlund, who narrowly missed the target. Zirkzee himself also had opportunities to get on the scoresheet.
The victory provides a welcome boost for Ruben Amorim, whose first year in charge has been challenging. The Europa League now represents United’s most realistic path to silverware and European qualification, given their 14th position in the Premier League.
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