Fans are divided after Bruno Fernandes received a straight red card during Manchester United’s Premier League match against Tottenham on Sunday.
In the 42nd minute at Old Trafford, Fernandes was dismissed for the first time in his United career following a challenge on James Maddison. The Portuguese midfielder made contact with Maddison’s shin with a high-studded tackle, which referee Chris Kavanagh deemed serious foul play. However, replays indicated that Fernandes appeared to slip prior to the tackle.
Kavanagh’s swift decision to issue a red card ignited a lively debate on social media. One fan commented, “Bruno Fernandes slipped into this challenge and was sent off. This shouldn’t be a straight red card. It was a high challenge, but the slip is evident. He should have acted more cautiously, but this doesn’t warrant a dismissal.”
Another supporter added, “Bruno slipped and didn’t make significant contact. I understand why the red was given, but it feels a bit excessive given the slip.”
A third remarked, “It looks worse in slow motion, but Bruno slipped before the challenge, which led to his movement towards Maddison.”
Conversely, some fans backed the referee’s decision. One stated, “That was a poor decision by Bruno,” while another commented, “Horrific challenge. It deserved a red card.”
The Premier League Match Centre, which provides updates from the VAR Hub and PGMOL experts, released a statement regarding the incident, confirming the call.
“The referee issued a red card to Fernandes for a challenge on Maddison,” the statement explained. “VAR reviewed the incident and upheld the referee’s assessment of serious foul play.”
The incident involving Fernandes has generated significant discussion among fans. While some believe the slip lessened the severity of the challenge, others argue that the tackle was dangerous and warranted the red card. The Premier League’s Match Centre reaffirmed the call, indicating a divide in opinion over the application of the rules versus the context of the situation.
