Bruno Fernandes Names Iniesta As His Footballing Inspiration

Fernandes set the Premier League alight after joining Manchester United from Sporting Lisbon in the January transfer window for £46.6m.

The 25-year-old made nine appearances upon his arrival in England, scoring three and providing four assists before the 2019/2020 season was halted because of the Coronavirus pandemic.

His impressive performances saw him named as the Premier League’s player of the month for February.

Widely regarded as one of the best midfielders of his generation, Iniesta anchored Barcelona and Spain’s midfield for many years, winning among others, Champions League titles, European Championships, La Liga titles and scored the decisive goal when his country won the FIFA World Cup in 2010.

The 35-year-old currently plies his trade in Japan with Vissel Kobe but he has still left a lasting impression on United’s new hero.

“The one I liked to watch and follow was Iniesta, because Iniesta is a mix between an eight and a 10. It is a way I can do better, between eight and 10," Fernandes told Manchester United's official website.

"He is the guy who always likes to have the ball, take the risks, and I think Iniesta was one of the best in the world.

"For me, it was impressive how Iniesta finished his career without the Ballon d'Or. With everything he won, it is difficult for me to understand!”