In a lengthy conversation, Fernandes reveals personal details.

Denies that he is unable to play beside Ronaldo.

Ten Hag's innovative strategy is praised in this passage.

WHAT CAME TO PASS? In a comprehensive interview, Fernandes discussed a variety of issues, including his on-field connection with Ronaldo and the adjustments that Ten Hag has made to the mentality of the team. The United playmaker has defended his club record alongside a fellow Portugal international while talking up his new manager's distinctive coaching philosophy. The United playmaker believes that his new manager's approach to coaching is comparable to that of his counterparts at Manchester City and Liverpool.

WHAT THEY Said: "First and foremost, [Ten Hag] has an idea," Fernandes said in an interview with The Athletic. "He has a certain flair. It is imperative that you adhere to his guidelines. In that regard, he is very stringent. And I enjoy hearing that. He has brought discipline, which is something that, in the past, I believe we lacked. He has brought it. Both Pep Guardiola and Jurgen Klopp have been employing this strategy for a number of years now."

In response to suggestions that he is more successful when Ronaldo is not on the team, Fernandes added: "Because the majority of my assists during the previous season went to him, I do not believe that (it is fair). Simply said, in terms of my own numbers, I did not have a very good season. I don't believe that it has anything to do with Cristiano or with me. Before he arrived, I was also taking the penalties, but during the previous season, I had two opportunities to take the penalties and I botched both of them. Because of this, I find it impossible to criticize Cristiano for taking penalties, especially when he is successful."

THE BIG PICTURE: After getting off to a blistering start at United, Fernandes has seen a significant decline in his production ever since Ronaldo joined the club in the summer of 2017. He was only involved in 16 goals in the Premier League during the 2021-22 season, which was a significant drop from the 29 goals he contributed the previous year.

IN EACH OF THE THREE PHOTOS: