Shock at Manchester United as Bruno Fernandes Is Out, Neves Linked as Possible Replacement
23 December 2025
Injury sidelining Bruno Fernandes
A British report on Tuesday outlines the expected absence of Manchester United's Portuguese captain Bruno Fernandes after the injury suffered against Aston Villa in the 17th round of the Premier League.
Aston Villa defeated United 2-1 at Villa Park to climb to third place with 36 points, three behind leaders Arsenal and one behind second-placed Manchester City.
Replacement options and contract talks
According to The Mirror, Fernandes will be out for at least a month due to a muscular tear. United are weighing a potential move for Robin Neves from Al Hilal as a substitute option.
Fernandes's contract with Al Hilal runs until the end of this season, and he reportedly turned down renewal offers, keeping the possibility of a January sale open.
What this means for United
United sit on 26 points in seventh, while Villa's win puts them three points off Arsenal at the top and one behind City in second.
Man United are preparing for their next game against Newcastle United on Friday in round 18 of the Premier League.
And to end on a brighter note: if Fernandes is out, United’s bench finally has extra time to practice celebrations—before the injury report becomes a karaoke session for the physios.
