Erik ten Hag Confirms Bruno Fernandes and Raphael Varane Fit for Manchester Derby

In a crucial update ahead of the highly anticipated Manchester derby, Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has assured fans that key players Bruno Fernandes and Raphael Varane are expected to be fit for Sunday’s clash.

Fernandes & Varane to be Available for Derby

Despite doubts surrounding their availability following the FA Cup fifth-round tie against Nottingham Forest, where they both featured in a hard-fought 1-0 victory, Ten Hag has allayed concerns about their fitness.

Speaking at a press conference on Thursday, Ten Hag stated,

“They [Varane and Fernandes] fought to be part and they came well out of the game. I think they will be available for Sunday.”

However, he also mentioned that there are no indications of currently sidelined players returning to action this weekend.

Also Read: Erik ten Hag demands Fulham’s apology for mocking Bruno Fernandes on TikTok

Other Manchester United Injury Concerns

One notable absence from the Manchester United squad will be Harry Maguire, who missed the Nottingham Forest match due to injury and is expected to sit out the derby as well. The extent of Maguire’s injury remains undisclosed at this time.

The injury list for Manchester United remains concerning, with players like Luke Shaw, Lisandro Martinez, Anthony Martial, Tyrell Malacia, Rasmus Hojlund, Mason Mount, and Aaron Wan-Bissaka all in various stages of recovery.

Ten Hag’s concerns regarding Fernandes’ fitness were evident after the Nottingham Forest match, where he revealed that the midfielder played through a “serious injury” and accused Forest players of targeting him.

The following day, he reiterated his stance, calling for referees to provide better protection for his captain: “Opponents are targeting him, that is not right. Referees should protect him.”

As the Manchester derby looms closer, both Manchester United and their supporters will be relieved by the news of Fernandes and Varane’s expected availability, but concerns persist over the fitness of other key players.