Youri Tielemans Explains Why He Told Bruno Fernandes to Shoot in Man Utd Pre-Season Game

Youri Tielemans has explained the reason behind his decision to shout at Bruno Fernandes during Manchester United‘s first pre-season game against Leeds United. The Belgian midfielder insisted that his instruction was not an attempt to boss his new teammates around, but simply an effort to help the team make better decisions on the pitch.

Tielemans joined Manchester United from Aston Villa for a reported £35 million fee this summer and made his first appearance alongside Fernandes during the 1-1 draw against Leeds at Croke Park in Dublin.

Tielemans explains why he told Bruno Fernandes to shoot

Fernandes returned to Manchester United action after enjoying an extended break following the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Portuguese midfielder came off the bench against Leeds and later missed a penalty during the shootout, although United eventually won the contest 5-4.

During the game, Tielemans was visibly heard encouraging Fernandes to take a shot when he believed the Manchester United captain had a good opportunity to do so.

Speaking to Rio Ferdinand on Rio Meets, Tielemans explained that encouraging teammates to shoot is simply part of his approach to football. The Belgian stressed that he does not intend to control his teammates, but instead wants to help them make the best possible decision.

Tielemans said:

“I wanted the assist. I’m going to tell everyone [to shoot]. It’s not to boss anyone around because no one likes that.”

“It’s just to help each other to try and take the best decision and I felt that there he could have shot easily. Makes him laugh, and he understands that.”

Tielemans and Fernandes building their Manchester United partnership

The Leeds friendly was an important opportunity for Tielemans to begin developing an understanding with Fernandes. The Belgian midfielder has signed a five-year contract at Old Trafford and is expected to play an important role in Manchester United’s midfield during the 2026/27 campaign.

Fernandes, meanwhile, is entering the final year of his current Manchester United contract, although the club reportedly has an option to extend his deal for another season.

Their relationship on the pitch could become particularly important as United look to improve their performances under manager Michael Carrick. Tielemans’ willingness to communicate with teammates could add another dimension to the midfield.

Michael Carrick wants Manchester United to make more signings

Manchester United have already strengthened their squad this summer with the arrivals of Tielemans and Andrey Santos for a combined reported fee of £85 million. Karl Darlow has also joined the club on a free transfer.

Despite the additions, Carrick believes United should continue looking for opportunities to improve the squad. The former Manchester United midfielder stressed that recruitment remains an ongoing process.

Carrick told Sky Sports News:

“So the players that we’ve brought in, I think we’ve done really good business and we’ve got some top, top, top players. So we’re delighted with that. We always want to improve.”

“We want more, we need more. We keep looking forward to how we can do that. So that never stops. We’re conscious of that and we’ve got to keep pushing.”

Manchester United’s final pre-season test

Manchester United will face AC Milan in their final pre-season fixture before beginning their 2026/27 Premier League campaign.

The Red Devils are scheduled to open their league campaign away against newly promoted Hull City on August 22. With Tielemans settling into the squad and Fernandes returning to match action, United will hope their final preparations provide positive momentum ahead of the new Premier League season.