Player Ratings: Bruno Fernandes shines in Man United’s eight-goal thriller against Bournemouth

Player Ratings: Manchester United 4-4 AFC Bournemouth

Manchester United and AFC Bournemouth delivered one of the most breathless games of the Premier League season, an eight goal spectacle that left everyone entertained and nobody fully satisfied. The 4-4 draw at Old Trafford felt like several matches rolled into one, momentum swinging wildly and defensive organisation largely optional.

For Ruben Amorim, it was another reminder that progress remains uneven. United showed attacking verve and resilience, yet also a worrying fragility, especially when faced with direct running and quick combinations. Bournemouth arrived in poor form but played with freedom, pace and no fear, exposing issues that United have still not solved.

Game Pattern and Tactical Story

United started brightly, pressing high and moving the ball quickly through midfield. Amad gave them an early lead, rewarding an energetic opening that suggested Bournemouth might fold. Instead, Andoni Iraola’s side leaned into the chaos, pushing runners forward and attacking United’s right side with purpose.

Antoine Semenyo’s equaliser shifted the tone, and although Casemiro restored United’s lead from a set piece, Bournemouth never retreated. Goals from Evanilson and Marcus Tavernier, either side of half time, underlined how easily United’s back line could be unsettled once pulled out of shape.

Amorim’s substitutions were proactive rather than reactive. The introduction of Benjamin Sesko and Lisandro Martinez changed the rhythm, Cunha grew more influential, and Bruno Fernandes dragged United back into contention with leadership and quality. Even then, Eli Junior Kroupi’s late equaliser ensured there would be no escape.

Key Performers and Turning Points

Bruno Fernandes was the game’s controlling presence, dictating tempo and delivering decisive moments when United needed them most. Matheus Cunha embodied the attacking intent Amorim wants, constantly involved and increasingly decisive. At the other end, Luke Shaw endured a torrid evening, struggling to contain Semenyo and never quite recovering.

For Bournemouth, Tavernier and Semenyo were relentless outlets, while Evanilson’s movement caused persistent problems. This was not a smash and grab, it was a calculated exploitation of United’s weaknesses.

Player Ratings

Manchester UnitedSenne Lammens, 6Leny Yoro, 6Ayden Heaven, 5Luke Shaw, 4Amad, 8Casemiro, 7Bruno Fernandes, 8Diogo Dalot, 6Bryan Mbeumo, 6Matheus Cunha, 9Mason Mount, 7

SubstitutesKobbie Mainoo, 6Lisandro Martinez, 6Benjamin Sesko, 7Patrick Dorgu, N/AJoshua Zirkzee, N/A

ManagerRuben Amorim, 6

This draw may thrill neutrals, but for Manchester United it raises familiar questions, while AFC Bournemouth depart knowing they went toe to toe with one of the league’s biggest names and never blinked.

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