I had a lot of fights with him: Bruno Fernandes lifts lid on training ground clashes
(Courtesy : Getty Images)
The midfielder does high-intensity training.
Bruno Fernandes has revealed his intense training style often resulted in confrontation with former assistant coach Mitchell van der Gaag. The Portuguese playmaker clarified that his competitive zeal is a purposeful strategy meant to uphold high standards and make sure his teammates don’t let their intensity wane.
When Van der Gaag was Erik ten Hag’s main assistant, the United captain acknowledged having frequent “fights” with the Dutchman. These arguments frequently resulted from insignificant issues on the training pitch, when Bruno Fernandes’ compulsive drive to succeed prevented him from letting decisions slip.
Although Van der Gaag eventually left Old Trafford in July 2024, the captain’s strict management approach has not softened since his departure.
The midfield player emphasised that his outspoken and even demeanour is not intended to be harmful. Rather, he saw it as an essential instrument for inspiring the rest of the team at daily trainings.
Bruno Fernandes opens up about fights with assistant coach during training
In an interview with The Telegraph, Bruno Fernandes discussed the reasons behind his tantrums and how they affect the larger group.
“I had a lot of fights with him about that. People already understood that, it’s not in a mean way, I just want to win. If I don’t put that into training, if I’m not that guy, the other ones will probably drop a bit the intensity.”
“I know certain players, they look at me and need to see me alive to understand that I’m in the game. Sometimes I need to be that guy that puts the energy, that shouts, that does things for the other ones to become better because I can do that and still focus.”
Under Michael Carrick’s leadership, Bruno Fernandes has flourished since the previous coaching staff left. The former Sporting CP star is presently vying for the all-time Premier League record for assists in a single season after returning to his most productive form.
Who was the assistant coach who used to fight with Fernandes?
Mitchell van der Gaag.
Is he still United’s coach?
No, he left as he worked under Erik ten Hag.
Who is the current assistant coach of United?
Steve Holland.
For more updates, follow Khel Now on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram; download the Khel Now Android App or IOS App and join our community on Telegram.
After earning a bachelor's degree in mass media, Rajarshi began his career as a sports writer in 2019, driven by his passion for sports journalism. He has been working in the field for over six years. A devoted fan of Lionel Messi and Barcelona, Rajarshi has been involved in sports since childhood. Before turning his focus to journalism, he even represented his college at the state level. Along with covering football, he enjoys playing the game, watching movies, and experimenting with new recipes in his spare time, as cooking is one of his favorite hobbies.