With anticipation building for the second leg at Old Trafford, tensions are already running high—especially after comments from Athletic Club defender Dani Vivian, who didn’t hide his unease about facing one Manchester United star again. Reflecting on the first leg, which was a fiercely competitive affair, Vivian revealed just how much of an impact Bruno Fernandes had on him and his team. “I walked into that game 100% sure we were winning—until he touched the ball,” Vivian confessed, clearly still rattled by the midfielder’s display. “From that moment, everything collapsed.”
Known for his hard-tackling and composure at the back, Vivian appeared both frustrated and awestruck. Bruno Fernandes, often scrutinized this season for uneven performances, stepped up in a big way during the first meeting. His influence went far beyond numbers—he completely disrupted Athletic’s rhythm, dominating the tempo and unleashing piercing passes that carved open their defense. According to Vivian, Fernandes didn’t just play the game—he owned it. “He dominated, twisted the momentum, and made me see red—literally,” he said. “This one man turned our confidence into chaos. If he starts the second leg, we’re DONE. Simple.”
Fans across social media quickly seized on Vivian’s remarks, sparking debate under trending tags like #ManUtd and #BrunoMasterclass. While some supporters argued the praise was excessive, others pointed to Bruno’s commanding presence as the turning point in the match. For those who watched closely, it was clear—Bruno Fernandes was more than just effective. He was relentless, leading from the front with energy, pressure, and razor-sharp decision-making.
Vivian’s words struck a chord because they echoed what many already believe: when Bruno is dialed in, he can shift the balance of a game by sheer force of will. Whether it was a rare standout showing or a sign of what’s to come remains to be seen. But Vivian’s honesty—especially the line “until he touched the ball, everything collapsed”—carries weight. It wasn’t just admiration; it was a warning. If Bruno brings that same level of intensity to the second leg, Athletic Club may find themselves overwhelmed once again.
