Bruno Fernandes delivered a captain’s performance at Old Trafford, netting a hat-trick to propel Manchester United past 10-man Real Sociedad and secure a Europa League quarter-final showdown with Lyon.
With European qualification hanging by a thread and the Europa League offering the only realistic path to continental football next season, United’s night began on the worst possible note.
Mikel Oyarzabal converted from the spot after being fouled by Matthijs de Ligt, putting Sociedad ahead early.
However, the Red Devils responded swiftly, drawing level within six minutes. Fernandes confidently dispatched a penalty after Igor Zubeldia had brought down Rasmus Hojlund in the box.
Remarkably, a third penalty of the night put United in front. Aritz Elustondo was penalized for a foul on Patrick Dorgu, and despite his protests, Fernandes stepped up again to notch his second goal, sending the keeper the wrong way for his 14th strike of the season.
Sociedad’s hopes took another hit when Jon Aramburu saw red for hauling down Dorgu, who was through on goal. With the visitors reduced to 10 men, United took full control.
Fernandes sealed his hat-trick with a precise low drive across the goal, while his compatriot Diogo Dalot added a fourth in stoppage time, ensuring a convincing victory.
A Performance Amid United’s Turbulent Week
United’s triumph came against the backdrop of significant unrest. Fans protested against the Glazer family’s ownership ahead of Sunday’s draw with Arsenal, while concerns over summer spending were amplified by Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s stark warning about the club’s financial health.
Chief executive Omar Berrada attempted to ease fears before Thursday’s match, but Ratcliffe’s candid critique—labeling some of United’s squad as “overpaid” and “not good enough”—only deepened the uncertainty surrounding the club.
The unveiling of grand £2bn stadium redevelopment plans added to the turmoil, particularly given United’s staggering £1bn debt, which includes unpaid transfer fees.
Amidst this chaos, Fernandes emerged as United’s savior. Though former captain Roy Keane may question the Portuguese star’s leadership, Fernandes has consistently been the one to step up when United need him most.
Despite the weight of expectation, he kept his composure for both penalties before rounding off his display with a well-taken finish. Whether or not Keane approves, Fernandes remains the player United turn to in moments of crisis.
Zirkzee’s Redemption Arc
Regardless of how United’s challenging season unfolds, Joshua Zirkzee deserves recognition for his resilience.
The Dutch striker’s £36.5m summer arrival from Bologna was met with skepticism, and his initial performances did little to dispel doubts. His lowest moment came on December 30, when he was jeered off the pitch after just 30 minutes in a home defeat to Newcastle.
Yet, instead of letting that setback define him, Zirkzee displayed remarkable mental strength. He fought through his struggles, scored crucial goals, and is now beginning to settle into his role.
Against Sociedad, he was a vocal presence, helping United recover from their early deficit. He nearly set up another goal with a brilliant move to the byline, where he pulled the ball back for Hojlund—only for the Dane to agonizingly miss.
Though frustrated by his own missed chances, Zirkzee’s overall performance was encouraging. Perhaps he has what it takes to succeed at United after all.
