Man Utd losing Burnley Premier League clash proves point about Bruno Fernandes transfer
Manchester United lost to Burnley in their Premier League showdown at Old Trafford, highlighting the need for a player of Bruno Fernandes' ilk in the process.
Man Utd losing to Burnley shows need for Bruno Fernandes transfer (Image: GETTY)
There have been many bad performances from Manchester United at Old Trafford in the years since Sir Alex Ferguson walked away. But the 2-0 Premier League defeat to Burnley is up there with the very worst, if not being a new low for the club.
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Anthony Martial looked a shadow of the player who burst onto the scene in 2015 with a remarkable, dazzling goal against Liverpool.
Nemanja Matic and Fred were abysmal, offering virtually nothing in either defence or attack.
And bright spots of this season such as Daniel James and Brandon Williams were reduced to looking like amateurs as Burnley ran rings around them.
What the game proved most of all, though, is how United need a player like Bruno Fernandes.
The club have spent weeks negotiating with Sporting Lisbon about a deal for the 25-year-old, hoping to make him their big arrival of the January transfer window.
And now it's time to stop talking, and start acting.
What was apparent during the game against Burnley was how much the club need a player to unlock defences, to create chances.
Because those who started at Old Trafford offered nothing in terms of creativity whatsoever.
Juan Mata has experienced a recent upturn in form but the Spain international was back to being mediocre against Sean Dyche's side.
Martial looked lost. Without his partner in crime Marcus Rashford on the pitch, he looked unable to make a difference.
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And players like James, Mason Greenwood and Jesse Lingard were also unable to offer anything going forward.
Which is why it's patently clear how much United need Fernandes.
They've spent weeks haggling with Sporting Lisbon, determined to land their man but also determined not to shoot themselves in the foot when it comes to any potential future transfer deals.
But now, they need to do it. Get the deal done. Because, if not, more results like this will unfold.
And that, eventually, will end Solskjaer's time as manager.