“They’re so rare”: Sam Allardyce singles out United ace as one who can “change a game” on his own

Manchester United have regained their mojo under Michael Carrick, who took over as caretaker manager last month following former head coach Ruben Amorim’s departure. The Red Devils have enjoyed a spectacular run under the Englishman and remain unbeaten in the league since his arrival.

The 1-1 draw against West Ham United earlier this week brought an end to Carrick’s 100% record, but he has still managed four wins in five games since taking charge. The English giants have also scored 11 goals and conceded five during that period.

United have already scored 47 goals in the Premier League this season from 26 games, three more than the figure they managed in the league in the entire 2024/25 campaign. INEOS’ decision to invest in the attack last summer now looks like a masterstroke, but central to the Red Devils’ recent rise has been Bruno Fernandes’ return to his preferred No. 10 position.

The best No. 10 in Europe

Former Liverpool midfielder Danny Murphy recently hailed the Portuguese midfielder as the best No. 10 in Europe at the moment, and few would argue with that stance. Fernandes started the season in an unfamiliar pivot role alongside Casemiro but did not look out of place in the position.

It is a testament to the Portuguese’s quality that, even from a deeper position, he was one of the Premier League’s most creative players. Carrick’s decision to reinstate the United skipper in his natural role has already paid dividends and has further raised questions about Amorim’s system.

Fernandes, however, has been influential all season. The 31 year old has registered six goals and 13 assists in 25 games across competitions. Despite missing three games in the Premier League due to a hamstring injury, he is still the league’s top assist provider with 12 to his name this campaign.

Bruno Fernandes Stats: 2025/26 Season

Source: Transfermarkt.

The Portuguese has registered 104 goals and 99 assists in 315 appearances for United to date and is already an Old Trafford legend. He has now received high praise from former England manager Sam Allardyce.

United’s only World-class Player

Speaking to Wayne Rooney on the No Tippy Tappy Football podcast, Allardyce insisted Fernandes is a player who can decide a game on his own. He said: “The talent now, I think, more than ever before, one man can change a game for you.”

“One top-class player now more than ever before. Because at Man United, there was, when you go to act [sic] the top-class players, but players that make a difference. And at Man United, we’re talking about Fernandes. You know what I mean? And many other clubs.”

“If you’ve got more than one, you’re sort of feeling a little bit lucky today in the Premier League. Because they’re so rare. Like, I’ve talked about centre-forwards. I mean, where are they? In the world. You know what I mean? So, if you’ve got a centre-forward, you’ve got to do your very, very best to keep hold of him.”

“He’s got to be your goalscorer. But then you have to share the goals out everywhere else, like you mean, and take responsibility.”

Final Thoughts

Fernandes’ future remains under scrutiny, as his contract expires in less than 18 months and there is rising interest in his signature. However, if the Portuguese’s form this season is any indication, he still has a lot of football left in him and United should do everything possible to tie him down to an extension.

Featured image Carl Recine via Getty Images

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