Bruno Fernandez finally reveals what the referee told him as the captain before awarding Bournemouth penalty last night
Bruno Fernandes expressed clear frustration over VAR decisions after Manchester United’s 2-2 draw against AFC Bournemouth at the Vitality Stadium.
Manchester United travelled to the Vitality Stadium on Friday night aiming to strengthen their push for a top-four Premier League finish. The visitors initially took control of the contest when Bruno Fernandes converted from the penalty spot in the 61st minute to give them a deserved lead.
However, the advantage did not last long as Bournemouth responded six minutes later, with Ryan Christie finding the equaliser to bring the hosts level. The momentum then swung again when James Hill turned the ball into his own net, restoring United’s lead and putting them back in front.
The game took another dramatic turn in the closing stages. With less than 10 minutes remaining, Harry Maguire was shown a red card for a foul on Evanilson inside the box, handing Bournemouth a penalty opportunity. Substitute Eli Kroupi Jr stepped up and calmly converted the spot kick to secure a 2-2 draw for the home side.
After the final whistle, Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes was openly disappointed, especially with how VAR handled key moments in the game. He questioned why a penalty appeal involving Amad Diallo, who went down under a challenge from Adrien Truffert, was not reviewed or awarded. That incident occurred earlier in the match and was followed immediately by Bournemouth going up the other end to score their equaliser.
Speaking to Sky Sports, Fernandes admitted United felt they should have been in a stronger position, suggesting the game could have been wrapped up earlier. He pointed out the inconsistency in decision-making, noting that similar challenges were treated differently at each end of the pitch. In his view, if one of those incidents was judged as a penalty, then the other should have been as well, or neither should have been given at all. He also stressed his confusion over VAR’s refusal to intervene in the Amad situation.
Fernandes further admitted that while officiating decisions are difficult, consistency is what matters most. He added that United must now focus on turning such frustrating moments into better results in upcoming matches, stressing the importance of approaching each game one at a time in a highly competitive Premier League season.
Manager Michael Carrick also voiced his dissatisfaction with the officiating. He felt Manchester United should have been awarded another penalty, describing the decisions as inconsistent and difficult to understand. According to him, both incidents appeared very similar, involving clear contact, and he could not comprehend why only one was given. He labelled the situation as baffling and frustrating.
Manchester United will now look to bounce back when they face Leeds United at Old Trafford on April 13.
