Manchester United face Manchester City on Saturday at Wembley Stadium in the final of the FA Cup, and Red Devils captain Bruno Fernandes has vowed to give his all and ensure they finish 2023-24 on a high.
Man United finished eighth in the Premier League this season – their lowest finish since 1990 – and have conceded the most goals (84) in all competitions in a season since 1963-64.
The Red Devils have failed to qualify for any of the three European competitions next season through the league route and will have to win the FA Cup to play continental football next term.
Victory over the Premier League champions tomorrow will see Man United secure a place in the group stages of the Europa League come 2024-25, and Fernandes has urged his teammates to give their all against Pep Guardiola’s side while also pledging his future to the club amid reports linking him with a summer exit.
“After this difficult season, it is my responsibility to give more,” the Portugal international told The Players’ Tribune.
“It starts with me. And it starts tomorrow. We have to give everything in this last match against City, and we have to move forward.
“I love to step out at Old Trafford more than anything in the world. I don’t want to leave. This has always been my ultimate dream.
“I just want my expectations to fit with the expectations of the club. If you go talk to any fan, they will tell you the same thing. We want to compete for the league. We want to be playing Champions League football. We want to be in cup finals. That is the standard. That is what I want. That is what you all deserve.”
Man United ended the league campaign with impressive back-to-back victories against Newcastle United and Brighton & Hove Albion and manager Erik ten Hag and his men will be feeling quite confident heading into the game against Man City.
However, they face a stiff test against a side with just six losses across all competitions this season.
Man United lost 3-0 and 3-1 to Man City across their league fixtures this season and will have to be on top of their game to have a chance of pipping their neighbours to the FA Cup trophy.
Fernandes and his teammates will hope their best is enough against their bitter rivals tomorrow, and Ten Hag will be hoping they deliver as his future could be at risk if they lose.
