Overview
- Bruno Fernandes scored three goals and registered an assist in Portugal’s 9-1 win over Armenia to clinch 2026 World Cup qualification, with two strikes from penalties and one from open play.
- Roberto Martínez used Fernandes high in an attacking midfield three for Portugal, contrasting with Ruben Amorim’s deeper two-man midfield role at Manchester United.
- United have not lost a Premier League match since late September and sit six points off second place as they prepare to face Everton after the international break.
- ESPN-reported shortlists link United with Brighton’s Carlos Baleba, Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton and Stuttgart’s Angelo Stiller as potential midfield recruits.
- To finance additions, reports suggest United could consider moving on high earners such as Jadon Sancho, Marcus Rashford, Casemiro and Harry Maguire, while Atletico’s Conor Gallagher said he wants more minutes but remains focused on winning titles there.