Man United loanee Alvaro Fernandez reveals his pride after scoring first Benfica goal in sensational display | OneFootball

Manchester United loanee Alvaro Fernandez has revealed just how proud he is of his performance during Benfica’s 3-1 win against Farense on Monday, which he crowned with a first goal for the Liga Portugal giants.

Fernandez’s appearance for Benfica vs. Farense was just his second top-flight start for the club which he joined in January after United cut short his Granada loan spell.

The left-back got on the end of a cross from Angel Di Maria and expertly controlled the ball before guiding it into the far post with his right foot.

The United loanee registered 98 touches of the ball, won four tackles and made two key passes. He also emerged victorious in 10 of the 14 ground duels he delved into.

It was certainly a game to remember for Fernandez, who spoke to reporters after the match and gave his verdict on his own display.

The Spaniard said, “We always want to win, do our best and today we did well, and I’m happy for the team and the goal.”

“I’m proud, I came here to help and do my best. I’ve been welcomed from the start.”

He added, “I just have to keep working. My teammates are doing their best to integrate me quickly.”

The 21-year-old’s sensational display also received praise from the Portuguese press, who waxed lyrical about him while urging Benfica to make his stay permanent.

Record wrote about Fernandez, “In a match in which he has stood out, Álvaro Carreras crowned his good performance with a goal, Benfica’s third against Farense and also his first in senior competitions.”

Notícias ao Minuto relayed, “The defender on loan from Manchester United scored what was the decisive goal of the match (1-3), in the 67th minute, after other highlights in the team’s defensive and offensive processes, especially in the first half. Carreras thus showed that the German coach can count on him on the left side of the Red defence.”

SAPO Desporto even compared him to a “Porsche” due to how good he was.

Fernandez has made 12 appearances so far for the Eagles. While he’s not a guaranteed starter, he’s certainly giving Roger Schmidt something to think about.

From United fans’ point-of-view, they will be left wondering whether Fernandez should have stayed to play in the left-back position. Due to injuries sustained by Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia, the Red Devils have no recognized senior left-back. Aaron Wan-Bissaka has played on that part of the pitch but he’s hardly a specialist. Ten Hag has also been forced to name teenagers like Harry Amass to the bench to ensure there is enough cover at left-back.

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