Bruno Fernandes moment vs Arsenal proved his Manchester United captaincy credentials

After the first two matches of the season, it was clear that something had to change drastically at Manchester United. Four games later, it is safe to say something has changed.

It was symbolic of United’s struggles in recent years that they had impressed during meaningless pre-season matches and immediately crumbled at the first signs of pressure, falling victims to their own hype after a successful summer schedule. When it came to actually fighting for points, Erik ten Hag’s side were blown away, lost for ideas, and lacking leadership.

But if anything it was a blessing in disguise. Ten Hag had dodged some of his bigger summer decisions, sticking with a goalkeeper who didn’t obviously fit his style and backing the out-of-form Harry Maguire to keep the captaincy.

READ MORE: Ten Hag is managing squad like Mourinho did

By half-time of their second match of the campaign this was all torn apart. The new season had transformed into open season and Ten Hag wasn’t blameless from the mess he had overseen.

In response he finally made some big calls. David de Gea had to remain in goal given there was no viable alternative at the club, but he did have replacements for Maguire and the wantaway Cristiano Ronaldo. He hasn’t looked back since.

United ran the risk of losing even more leadership and direction on the pitch without two of their most influential players but in their absence Bruno Fernandes has stepped up to the plate, taking the armband and spearheading his side’s attacking play.

In the four games since the Portuguese midfielder took over as captain United have won each time, but, perhaps most importantly, Fernandes has been pivotal in each victory.

He was the beating heart of the Liverpool win, scored the only