´Don´t use my name to attack Cristiano!´ – Fernandes denies taking a swipe at Ronaldo

Bruno Fernandes insists he was not taking a swipe at Cristiano Ronaldo when describing Manchester United as “a proper team” following the superstar forward’s exit.

Portugal international Fernandes struck a controversial equaliser against Manchester City on Saturday before Marcus Rashford earned a 2-1 comeback victory for United at Old Trafford.

Erik ten Hag’s side have now won nine matches in a row – seven of those since Ronaldo’s high-profile exit in November – in what is their best league run since January 2017.

It has been quite the turnaround for United, who lost their opening two matches against Brentford and Brighton and Hove Albion but are now up in third place.

Speaking to BT Sport after United’s latest win, Fernandes said: “We used to be individuals, now we are a team. You can see a proper team that works for each other.”

7 – Marcus Rashford is the first Manchester United player to score in seven consecutive appearances (all competitions) since Cristiano Ronaldo in April 2008. Golden. pic.twitter.com/fXGhvABKPR

— OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) January 14, 2023

Those comments were perceived as being a dig at international colleague Ronaldo, but Fernandes took to Instagram later on Saturday to clarify what he meant.

“I know it’s difficult to see Manchester United doing well, [but I] don’t have anything to [say] about us apart [from] good things,” he posted. “Don’t use my name to attack Cristiano.

“Cristiano was part of our team for half the season and as I said in many interviews, everyone since [the win against] Liverpool has been amazing and acting like a proper team.”

Fernandes, who now has four goals and four assists in 26 games this season, added: “You can see the results. We carry on!”

Ronaldo joined Saudi Arabian side Al Nassr earlier this month after his United contract was terminated by mutual consent following an explosive interview with Piers Morgan.

The five-time Ballon d’Or winner has yet to make his debut for his new club due to a two-match domestic ban carried over from his time with United.

Ten Hag’s in-form side are back in Premier League action on Wednesday with a trip to Crystal Palace.