Ruben Amorim confirms Bruno Fernandes will miss Manchester United’s match against Newcastle but seems optimistic

Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim appeared optimistic about the injuries to Bruno Fernandes and Kobbie Mainoo, although he confirmed both midfielders will miss Friday’s Premier League match against Newcastle.

Fernandes clutched his hamstring and suffered a soft tissue injury during United’s defeat to Aston Villa on Sunday, with Amorim initially saying he feared his captain would be «out for a while».

However, ahead of the Premier League’s only Boxing Day match, Amorim softened his view on the extent of Fernandes’ injury and also that of Mainoo’s calf problem, who missed the Villa match.

“Not for this match,” Amorim said on Wednesday about the prospect of either player being available for Newcastle at Old Trafford.

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«They are recovering. I don’t think it will take much time. I think Kobbie will come back faster than Bruno.»

Asked about a timetable for Fernandes’ absence, Amorim added: «I don’t want to say; I have an idea, but let’s see.»

The 31-year-old Portuguese playmaker has started every Premier League match this season and has been the most creative player in the competition this season, with 51 chances. Manchester City’s Jeremy Doku is his closest rival with fewer than 40. United have lost six and drawn one of their last seven games. Fernandes didn’t start.

“We have to take the good – if there is anything good about that – that many people have to stand up and understand that we cannot rely on one player for everything,” Amorim said.

Amorim added: “I am convinced that we can win every match.”

Published on December 24, 2025