Bruno Fernandes Frustrated After VAR Controversy at Sunderland
Bruno Fernandes left the Stadium of Light with more than just frustration at a missed chance to win the game – he left with a sore face and a simmering sense of injustice.
In the closing stages of Manchester United’s goalless draw at Sunderland, the captain was caught by an elbow from Black Cats substitute Nilson Angulo. The clash went unpunished on the pitch. It stayed that way in the VAR room as well.
Fernandes hit the deck after Angulo’s arm thrust towards his face, requiring treatment before he could continue. Replays showed clear contact, but referee Stuart Attwell waved play on and VAR Peter Bankes chose not to intervene. No foul. No card. No review.
The incident did not pass quietly inside the United camp.
Back in the dressing room, Fernandes voiced his anger to teammates and staff, unhappy that nothing had been given in a moment he felt demanded action. The sense of irritation spread beyond the captain, with the coaching staff also convinced the challenge should have been punished.
It is not the first time Attwell has been at the centre of United’s grievances this year. Old Trafford officials have already lodged a complaint over his failure to award a penalty for what they believed was a foul on Amad in the 2-2 draw at Bournemouth in March. That decision still rankles. This one will not help.
Michael Carrick, speaking after the stalemate at Sunderland, admitted he had not yet seen a replay of the Angulo–Fernandes flashpoint, but he did not hide the mood within his own technical area.
“Bruno said there was contact and he wasn't too happy about it when he came in,” Carrick said. “The staff on the bench weren't too happy with it as well.
“I don't know, I'm getting a little bit confused with what's going on really, so I'm maybe better off staying out of it.”
Confused or not, United now move on with another VAR controversy added to a growing list, and a captain who clearly feels the officials are giving him and his side precious little protection when it matters most.
