Ronaldo and I told Solskjaer to sign Fernandes, says Evra

Patrice Evra revealed the role that both himself and Cristiano Ronaldo played in Manchester United signing Bruno Fernandes.

Fernandes has become a prominent figure for Manchester United since completing a €55m transfer from Sporting CP in January, providing 12 goals and eight assists in 22 appearances.

The 25-year-old’s impact helped reverse the United’s fortunes last season. Not only did they secure a solid third-place finish in the Premier League, but they lost just twice in all competitions.

His importance in the team has already been compared somewhat to Red Devils icon Ronaldo, who himself encouraged Ole Gunnar Solskjaer to sign him along with former teammate Evra.

“United can’t challenge Liverpool or Man City. Not yet. There’s been massive damage, but we’re moving in the right direction,” Evra told The Guardian.

“When they wanted to sign Bruno Fernandes, Ole texted me. I asked for advice from Cristiano Ronaldo. Cristiano says: ‘Bruno’s a good guy and very professional.’

“I say: ‘Ole, I’ve spoken with Cristiano. Let’s go for it.’ And Fernandes had a massive impact. Without him, I don’t think we would have qualified for the Champions League.”

The former United full-back then disclosed how Fernandes has helped Paul Pogba flourish since returning from injury.

“Paul’s really misunderstood,” said Evra. “People talk more about his hairstyle but he’s a great kid, a shy boy actually.

“It was important for Fernandes to relieve that attention on Paul. It wasn’t fair. Paul is a happy person and we have been close so long. He Facetimed me yesterday at 11:30 pm. I said: ‘Paul, I’m in bed. Let me sleep.'”