Wolves defender Ruben Vinagre hails ‘big impact’ of Bruno Fernandes since arriving at Manchester United

Duo will be playing together at international level in the coming years if Vinagre’s ambitions are realised

Wolves left-back Ruben Vinagre says he is not surprised by Bruno Fernandes’ instant impact in English football, having been a regular admirer of the midfielder while he was at Sporting CP.

Manchester United signed the attacking midfielder in January and he has quickly made himself a fundamental part of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s team.

His arrival coincided with a run of improved form for the Red Devils, and Vinagre says it was always apparent that Fernandes had traits that made him a stand-out.

“No, it didn’t surprise me,” he said to Portuguese outlet Record. “I followed Sporting and it was clear that Bruno was a different player.”

“The truth is that he arrived here and made a big impact on the team.

“He has established himself as a Manchester United reference-point and is undoubtedly playing the role well.

“I think the press and the fans are fascinated with what he has demonstrated and rightly so. Bruno arrived, saw and conquered.”

Fernandes has scored three goals in nine games since joining United before the 2019/20 campaign was suspended due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Vinagre further spoke of his appreciation for Wolves manager Nuno Espirito Santo, who he says has improved him as a player by “showing me the path” and “working with me on the defensive” aspects.

He also named Bernardo Silva his most difficult opponent so far and acknowledged that he has ambitions to play in the senior setup with the Portugal international team, where Napoli’s Mario Rui and Dortmund’s Raphael Guerreiro are currently regulars.