Despite claiming the Premier League Summer Series title, United’s shaky display raised concerns as they surrendered the lead twice. ..Continue Reading
In a post-match chat with Sky Sports, Fernandes—who bagged the opener and set up the second goal—voiced concern that the squad still falls short of expectations going into the 2025–26 campaign.
‘We didn’t want to finish in this way,’ Fernandes said after the friendly against Everton. ‘Our performance wasn’t the best today off the ball.
‘We looked a bit lazy today and we have to avoid that. It is improving [the club situation] but we are not where this club needs to be.’
Fernandes also played down his clash with Iliman Ndiaye – and says the pre-season tour of the United States has been worthwhile – with United having won their other two games against AFC Bournemouth & West Ham, which was enough to land the Summer Series trophy.
‘It’s a game of football, there is always passion there,’ Fernandes added.
‘Whatever happens, happens. There was nothing spicy there, it is normal, it is part of the game
‘It is positive [the United States tour] and it is good to create a bond with the players.’
Meanwhile, speaking in his half-time interview, United manager Ruben Amorim called out his players for Ndiaye’s goal on 40 minutes.
Manuel Ugarte lost the ball on the edge of his own penalty area and a cross to the far post found Ndiaye.
Ndiaye had made the run off the back of Fernandes, who fell asleep – and the Everton player applied finishing touch to find the back of the net.
‘When Ugarte has the ball, you can see the defence walking towards the box,’ Amorim told Sky Sports.
‘We need to sprint. When Ugarte loses the ball we need to be at least on the edge of the box. These small details we need to improve.’
Man United have one more friendly left before the 2025-26 campaign begins as they take on Italian side Fiorentina at home on Saturday.
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