5 shots, 5 key passes, 2 goals: this resolute midfielder was the driving force behind United’s 4-1 win over Wolves

Manchester United were back on track after securing a 4-1 win over Wolverhampton Wanderers on Monday night. Having struggled to build a winning form in recent weeks, Man United appeared confident and energetic in their trip to the Molineux Stadium, where they were clearly the dominant side. While it appeared as if history would repeat itself after they fluffed a one-goal lead, United pulled themselves up in the second half to completely steamroll the home side. If there was one player who proved to make all the difference, it was club captain Bruno Fernandes. Producing the goods Fernandes was undoubtedly United’s strongest attacking influence. The Portuguese playmaker scored the opening goal in what was a quick counter-attack, while assisting Mason Mount with a surgical cross to bag United’s third goal. In the 82nd minute, Fernandes stepped up to take a penalty, hitting it hard and true at the bottom left corner to secure United’s fourth and final goal of the night. But while two goals and one assist is undoubtedly impressive, so too are Fernandes’ underlying statistics throughout the match. Fernandes’ consistency PlayerBruno Fernandes Goals2 Expected goals (xG)1.16 Assists1 Expected assists (xA)0.85 Big chances created4 Key passes5 Crosses (accurate)5 (1) Accurate passes55/66 (83%) Passes in opposition half (acc.)33/43 (77%) Passes in own half (acc.)22/23 (96%) Long balls (accurate)3/6 (50%) Total shots5 Expected goals on target (xGOT)1.03 Shots on target2 Shots blocked3 Touches85 Unsuccessful touches1 Dribbles (successful)0 (0) Was fouled2 Possession lost19 Tackles (won)1 (1) Interceptions0 Clearances0 Blocked shots0 Recoveries7 Ground duels (won)5 (3) Aerial duels (won)6 (2) The United skipper was a constant threat in the box, taking five shots in total. While three were blocked, two were on target, both translating into goals for Fernandes. The Portuguese midfielder showed immense quality with the ball at his feet, with 55 of his 66 passes finding their target for 83% passing accuracy. He made a colossal five key passes, with three of six long balls reaching their mark. Fernandes won three of five ground duels, along with two of six aerial battles. He also made one tackle. While this season has been a rollercoaster for United, this match was undoubtedly one of Fernandes’ finest performances in a United jersey. Clearly, he has plenty to offer as United head into the business end of the season. (Stats via Sofascore) Featured image Shaun Botterill via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Mathew Cohen A faithful Manchester United supporter, Mathew has worked as a football writer and analyst for SB Nation, FanSided, and now The Peoples Person. Mathew’s heroes include David Beckham, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Sir Alex Ferguson, all of whom played their part in creating some special childhood memories.