Roberto Martinez Highlights ‘Leaders’ Bruno Fernandes’ Importance in Portugal NT

The Portugal National Football Team has been led by some of the biggest names in soccer over the past few years. Be it legendary players like Luis Figo or the ongoing era of Cristiano Ronaldo, countless have left an indelible mark. However, in a surprising turn of events, the spotlight has shifted away from the obvious names and is redirected on generational talent Bruno Fernandes by Os Navegadores’ boss Roberto Martinez, who claims the Manchester United star has a ‘lot of leadership.’

While Cristiano wears the armband for his beloved nation, that doesn’t stop other players in the team, like Fernandes, from taking charge. The 29-year-old midfielder seems to have impressed the new Portugal boss. Speaking in an exclusive interview with A BOLA, Martinez said, “Bruno is a leader. He has a lot of leadership. But I think that respect between the players allows us to be happy on the pitch.”

The former Belgium coach believes the majority of players in the team should start taking more responsibility. “We need five or six players who are leaders. I think that in relation to what the opponent is proposing, we can use Bruno, we can use Bernardo, in totally different situations. And that’s important for our tactical flexibility that we’re talking about. If we don’t have the players to be able to do that, it doesn’t make sense,” he concluded. Indeed, these claims must have brought a smile to Fernandes’ face.

Notably, Fernandes has notched over 19 goals and 18 assists in over 63 games since his debut for the national team. The Red Devils’ skipper now often exhibits creativity in the No. 10 position, a role that earlier Bernardo Silva had. 

Roberto Martinez explains Bruno Fernandes and Bernardo Silva’s position exchange

In a similar interview, the host highlighted that under Fernando Santos’ reign, Silva was pushed more towards the middle. However, now the Manchester City star often plays on the right flank, with Bruno taking up the No. 10 role. Interestingly, Martinez defended his tactics by insisting that it is implemented in order to create ‘slower attacks’ and hold more possession.

READ MORE: Roberto Martinez Insists Cristiano Ronaldo & Goncalo Ramos ‘Can Play Together’ Despite Having Different Playing Styles

“Having a player like Bernardo Silva, who has an ability to appreciate space, gives us a very good link on the right wing, because with his left foot he gets in and opens up paths,” explained Martinez. Likewise, the Spaniard also heaped praise on the duo for perfectly fitting in their respective roles. Let’s see how this tactical shift helps Portugal in the upcoming Euros.

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