Alan Shearer has included (only) two Manchester United players in his Team of the Week for matchweek eight: Bruno Fernandes and Harry Maguire.
Whilst the duo are more than deserving of their spots, it’s a surprise to see Bryan Mbeumo excluded, given it was his early opener that really had Liverpool shaken at the place they feel the most assured.
How Harry Maguire fared at Anfield
Maguire has rightfully reaped the plaudits following his emphatic winner in the 84th minute, which saw him rise the highest in a crowded box to head home past Giorgi Mamardashvili.
Even before his contribution, he had put in a stalwart showing at the back. The centre-half made eight clearances, including four headed clearances, four recoveries, one interception and one block (Fotmob).
Explaining his selections, Shearer lauded Maguire, writing: “The big man came up with another big goal in a huge performance. An absolute giant in both boxes. Defended superbly to keep Liverpool’s attack at bay and then produced a towering header to seal a memorable win at Anfield.”
As for Fernandes, he delivered the match-winning assist with a tremendous pass that Roy Keane suspects only one out of 100 players would manage.
Roy Keane on Bruno Fernandes’ assist:
“I’d say 99 players out of 100 would have controlled that. For Bruno to do that, not many players can do it. If he doesn’t get it right, we’d be saying he has to take a touch. The top players will take risks.”
— Sean Gillen (@SeanGillen9) October 19, 2025
Bruno Fernandes and Ruben Amorim hailed for their efforts
The Portuguese maestro opted for a short corner to Mbeumo on the edge of the box for a quickfire shot on goal. However, it was deflected off Federico Chiesa and fell back into the path of Fernandes.
Without even a second thought, he volleyed the ball into the area via a perfectly lofted cross, which Maguire was then able to convert.
Shearer said of Fernandes: “A real captain’s performance. He never stopped working in the middle, and who else would you have expected to supply such an incredible ball for Maguire’s winner?”
What’s more, Shearer also made Ruben Amorim his Manager of the Week, with the head coach guiding United to what he hopes is a real statement victory and sign of what’s to come this campaign.
“Masterminded an outstanding win at the home of the champions to complete back-to-back wins for the first time since he took charge at Man Utd,” penned the pundit.
