Kolkata: Portugal's chances in the World Cup are looking bright, thanks to the talent in their squad. Francisco Conceicao, the team's head coach, believes they can win it and shouldn't be afraid to say it. This confidence is backed by Bruno Fernandes, the Premier League's assist king, who has been driving Manchester United to success.
Fernandes has a Premier League record for assists (21), the most across Europe's top five leagues. He has led Manchester United from the front in times good, bad, and very bad, and his loyalty to the club is evident in his decision to stay despite being offered more money elsewhere.
With a deal that could keep him till 2028, Fernandes has been in top form, creating chances and scoring goals. He has converted crisis into opportunity, adapting to a deeper midfield role and understanding what it takes to play in that position. His passing accuracy in the opposition half and in the final third are the best he has had since joining Manchester United.
Portugal may lack variety and pace in front of goal, but with Vitinha and Joao Neves available, Fernandes can play where he has done well for Manchester United. His prowess at set-plays can also be effective, especially with Austin MacPhee in Martinez's staff. With MacPhee in charge, Aston Villa scored 29 goals from set-piece situations in 2025-26, the most in Europe along with Arsenal.
Fernandes will be dealing less with end-of-season fatigue and is in the form of his life. He has played 37 matches for Manchester United, compared to 66 last year when Portugal won the Nations League. What's not to like?
