Bruno Fernandes Faces Goal Drought: 12 Matches Without Scoring for Man Utd

Bruno Fernandes' Goal Drought: Is Stretford End Salvation Close?

When Bruno Fernandes unleashed a breathtaking left-footed strike from 25 yards, celebrated by sliding on his knees in front of the Stretford End during Manchester United's comeback win against Sheffield United last April, he was riding a wave of form. In that moment, he had already netted seven goals in just five matches. Fast forward to the present, and Fernandes is enduring the longest goal drought of his career at United.

Struggles in Front of Goal

It’s not that Fernandes is lacking in attempts; he has made 30 shots in his last twelve matches without finding the back of the net. His 17 attempts in the Premier League this season make him the player with the highest tally of shots without scoring across Europe's major leagues. Recent performances have been particularly challenging, with Fernandes failing to even hit the target in his last four league outings. A near miss against Crystal Palace, where his shot bounced off the ground and struck the frame of the goal, epitomizes the current frustrations he faces.

Missed Opportunities: A Team Issue

Unfortunately for manager Erik ten Hag, Fernandes is not alone in his struggles. Manchester United ranks third in the Premier League for expected goals (xG) this season with 9.10, indicating that they are creating quality chances. However, they have also missed more clear-cut opportunities than any other team in the division, failing to convert 17 out of 19 big chances. Only relegation-threatened Southampton has a worse conversion rate.

Statistics That Speak Volumes

As the current statistics reveal, United’s poor finishing has contributed to their underwhelming goal tally of just five goals this season, significantly lower than their expected returns. Joshua Zirkzee, who has missed all four of his big chances so far, joins Fernandes and Alejandro Garnacho among the top players in the league struggling with poor xG outcomes.

Looking Towards Improvement

With only two wins from their first five Premier League matches, the pressure is mounting on Ten Hag. Close defeats, like the 2-1 loss at Brighton and the goalless draw against Crystal Palace, highlight the need for sharper finishing, which could have shifted the team’s standing in the league. Currently sitting at 11th place, Manchester United are already four points adrift of the top four positions, risking ground lost early in the season.

Hopes for Revival

The return of Rasmus Hojlund to full fitness and signs of a resurgence from Marcus Rashford could provide much-needed relief. Nevertheless, the ongoing goal drought for Fernandes continues to be a talking point. Fans and analysts alike are left wondering if this will finally change against Spurs on Sunday. Will Fernandes find his form and lead his team to victory at the Stretford End once again?

Conclusion

As the current season unfolds, the anticipation surrounding Bruno Fernandes and the Manchester United squad remains high. Will they convert their chances into goals and shift the narrative of missed opportunities? All eyes will be on them as they clash with Tottenham this weekend.