Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes reinforced his leadership credentials with a standout act following the club’s embarrassing defeat to Grimsby Town.
United beaten by Grimsby
United were dumped out of the Carabao Cup on Wednesday night by League Two outfit Grimsby Town, adding to their woeful start to the 2025/26 season.
Grimbsy were 2-0 up by the time both teams headed down the tunnel, courtesy of strikes from Charles Vernam and Tyrell Warren.
In desperate need of a turnaround, Ruben Amorim made three personnel changes during the interval. He brought on Matthijs de Ligt, Bruno Fernandes and Bryan Mbeumo for Tyler Fredricson, Patrick Dorgu and Manuel Ugarte.
There was a slight difference, with Mbeumo pulling one back for United in the 75th minute. Harry Maguire then equalised in the 89th minute to force the game into a penalty shootout. Ultimately, Grimsby prevailed as Matheus Cunha and Mbeumo missed their spot-kicks.
The loss has sparked major fallout, leaving Amorim under increasing pressure. The Portuguese coach dropped a cryptic hint on his United future, suggesting he may possibly walk away. He seemed to claim that his stars were not playing for him against Grimsby.
Fernandes’ classy act
Mbeumo missed the decisive penalty that sealed the victory for the Mariners, after which the fans at Blundell Park stormed the pitch as they broke into wild celebrations.
The United players, especially Mbeumo, found themselves mobbed and surrounded by the euphoric home supporters.
Clearly distraught after missing his chance, Mbeumo appeared inconsolable, leading Fernandes to rush over and console him.
Fernandes protected the new signing even as rival fans goaded them. The pair were flanked by a security guard.
Fernandes helping to escort Mbeumo off #mufc pic.twitter.com/cWq7zdZtcR
— Samuel Luckhurst (@samuelluckhurst) August 27, 2025
It was yet another selfless act from Fernandes, who has conducted himself with true distinction since he was handed the armband. By comparison, the majority of the squad wasted no time in heading down the tunnel once the final whistle blew.
Even more damning was Amorim’s refusal to watch the shootout, retreating to the bench and hiding behind his staff.
United are back in action on Saturday when they welcome newly-promoted Burnley to Old Trafford.
Featured image Mike Hewitt via Getty Images
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Derick Kinoti
Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the game extensively for many years. He is a keen analyst with expertise in SEO and journalism standards. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!
