Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandez praises player for His standout performance in united draw thriller against Real Sociedad and begs he performs like that against Leicester.

Manchester United’s Europa League clash against Real Sociedad ended in a tense 1-1 draw at the Reale Arena, setting up a decisive second leg at Old Trafford. The match was a significant moment for Joshua Zirkzee, who bounced back from recent struggles to deliver a standout performance, earning high praise from captain Bruno Fernandes.

Zirkzee, who had faced scrutiny after a missed penalty in United’s FA Cup defeat to Fulham, responded in the best possible way by scoring his first European goal for the club. His well-timed finish in the 57th minute was the result of a well-crafted attacking move, putting United ahead and reigniting belief in his potential. However, the lead was short-lived, as a controversial VAR decision resulted in a penalty for Sociedad, with Mikel Oyarzabal calmly converting from the spot to level the game.

Despite the disappointment of conceding, Fernandes was quick to acknowledge Zirkzee’s impact, even joking that he questioned whether the striker was truly from this planet due to his unexpected brilliance. The captain’s remarks highlighted the young forward’s resilience and importance to the squad at a critical time in the season.

Zirkzee’s journey at Old Trafford has been filled with ups and downs, but his recent performances suggest he is ready to establish himself as a key figure in United’s attack. With a Premier League showdown against leaders Arsenal approaching, the spotlight remains firmly on him. Fernandes emphasized the need for consistency, urging the Dutchman to replicate his European form against their domestic rivals, as United looks to reignite their campaign.

Manager Ruben Amorim is also keen on maintaining the squad’s cohesion as they prepare for crucial fixtures. He addressed an on-field moment of frustration between Rasmus Hojlund and Diogo Dalot, reinforcing the importance of teamwork and understanding among the players. United’s ability to stay united and focused could determine their success in both domestic and European competitions.

Zirkzee’s resurgence comes at a pivotal moment for the Red Devils. His goal against Sociedad not only salvaged a draw but also reignited confidence within the squad. If he can maintain this level of performance, he could play a decisive role in helping United turn their season around.