This month marks five years since Bruno Fernandes arrived at Manchester United from Sporting for an initial transfer fee of £47million.

At the time United were in desperate need of a new midfield maverick to provide a spark in the engine room and give them a much needed attacking boost.

Once captain at Sporting, Fernandes was named permanent United skipper in July 2023 when he took over the armband from Harry Maguire. United supporters had repeatedly called for Fernandes to be handed the armband on a permanent basis, yet once acquired, the fickle nature of football fans struck amid claims from some to change the skipper.

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At times Fernandes frustrates with his somewhat petulant behaviour but he never gives less than 100% with his on-field communication ever-present. One element United sides of the last few seasons has lacked is passion and fight. Fernandes brings that as well as dropping deep to help with defensive work and provide dogged work rate.

His attacking contributions are also exemplary, with 162 goal involvements in 261 United appearances since his debut against Wolves in February 2020. To add even more shine he has achieved double figures in both goals and assists in every full season since he arrived at Old Trafford.

He endured something of a turbulent first half of the season with three red cards (one of which was rescinded) at a time where the team has performed poorly, which has led to an increased amount of criticism for the Portuguese maestro, calling into question his leadership and overall ability. Yes, he has still been a strong performer, sitting third in the list for chances created in the Premier League this season with 43.

His stellar performance at Anfield on Sunday in the 2-2 draw with Liverpool was one of his best at the club with his sublime touches and through balls creating opportunities aplenty, including the goal for Lisandro Martinez. His 16 goals and assists this season in 28 games are still impressive numbers for a player who has been questioned in some quarters.

When Fernandes is absent from the match day squad, the impact is noticeable with his drive and moments of brilliance greatly missed, along with his ability to grab a game by the scruff of the neck and power the team forward to grind out a result.

The reality is that without Fernandes, United would be even further behind than they have been in recent times as he has been the most impactful signing in the last 10 years, putting himself right amongst the top class group of Europe’s best players.