I can't change people's opinions about me - Fernandes in his own words

Fernandes: 'I Can't Change People's Opinions About Me'

Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has opened up on the constant scrutiny he faces, admitting he has come to terms with the fact that he cannot change how everyone perceives him. In a candid interview with the BBC's Kelly Somers, the Portuguese playmaker discussed the pressures of playing for one of the world's biggest clubs and the importance of his family in navigating the often-harsh realities of professional football.

Family as a Shield Against Criticism

The emotional midfielder, known for his passionate on-field displays, revealed that his family is his anchor. "I have my family, my wife, my kids," Fernandes stated. "They are the most important thing for me. They are my biggest support, and they are the ones I play for." This deep-seated motivation, he explained, helps him to weather the storms of public opinion.

When asked about the relentless criticism that often accompanies a high-profile career, particularly at a club like Manchester United, Fernandes offered a surprisingly pragmatic perspective. "I understand that people have opinions," he said. "And that's okay. People are entitled to their opinions. I can't change people's opinions about me." It’s a sentiment that speaks volumes about the mental fortitude required at the elite level, a trait Fernandes has often displayed, albeit sometimes controversially, on the pitch.

The Weight of the Captain's Armband

Wearing the captain's armband for Manchester United carries an immense weight of expectation. Fernandes, who took over the captaincy from Harry Maguire, has embraced the responsibility. However, this leadership role also places him firmly in the spotlight, making him an easy target for both praise and criticism. He acknowledged this, suggesting that his perceived flaws are often amplified.

"Sometimes, when things are not going well, people look for someone to blame," Fernandes remarked. "And because I'm the captain, or because I'm a player who shows his emotions, I'm an easy target. But I try to focus on what I can control." This focus, he elaborated, is on his performance, his effort, and his commitment to the team. The intangible qualities that make a captain are often as crucial as the tangible ones, and Fernandes clearly believes he possesses them.

Embracing the Passion, Accepting the Scrutiny

Fernandes's passionate nature is a hallmark of his game. He wears his heart on his sleeve, a trait that endears him to many fans but also leaves him vulnerable to criticism when his emotions boil over. He doesn't shy away from this aspect of his personality, viewing it as an integral part of who he is as a player and a person.

"I am who I am," he asserted. "I play with my heart. I want to win. I get frustrated when we don't win or when I don't perform to my best. That's part of my game, and I don't think I need to change that." This self-awareness is key. He understands that his emotional investment is a double-edged sword, but ultimately, it fuels his drive. The challenge, then, is to channel that passion constructively, something he continually strives to do.

The United Expectation: A Different Ball Game

Playing for Manchester United is not for the faint-hearted. The club's storied history and global fanbase create an environment of perpetual expectation. Every performance is dissected, every decision is debated. Fernandes, having experienced this firsthand since his arrival from Sporting CP in January 2020, has developed a thick skin.

"When you play for a club like Manchester United, you know you're going to be judged," he explained. "Every player at this club is judged. It's part of the job. You have to learn to live with it. You have to focus on your own game, on helping the team." This acceptance of the intense scrutiny is a crucial coping mechanism. He understands that the narrative surrounding United players is often more extreme than at other clubs.

Looking Ahead: Focus on the Future

Despite the external noise, Fernandes remains focused on his contributions to Manchester United. His commitment to the club and his teammates is unwavering. While he acknowledges the impossibility of pleasing everyone, his drive to succeed remains undimmed. The opinions of the masses might be beyond his control, but his performance on the pitch, his leadership, and his dedication to the red shirt are very much within it.

"My focus is on performing well for Manchester United," Fernandes concluded. "It's on giving my best for the club and for the fans who support us. The rest is just noise." This statement encapsulates his mature approach to the pressures of elite football. He’s learned to filter out the distractions, understanding that true success lies in his own efforts and the collective progress of his team. The journey for Manchester United, and for their influential captain, continues, with Fernandes determined to lead by example, regardless of who is watching or what they might be thinking.