BREAKING NEWS: Ole Gunnar Solskjær Urges Manchester United to Bench Star Player Ahead of Europa League Final Against Tottenham

In a shocking twist ahead of the highly anticipated Europa League final in Bilbao, former Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjær has ignited fierce debate with a blistering statement urging his old club to drop captain Bruno Fernandes from the starting lineup.

Speaking in an emotionally charged interview just hours before the final showdown against Tottenham Hotspur, Solskjær did not mince words. “Bruno should not be anywhere near the pitch today—not in a Europa League final, not against Tottenham,” the Norwegian said emphatically. “Every time he plays, United suffer.”

Fans across social media platforms were left stunned by his brutal comments. Solskjær, once celebrated for nurturing Fernandes into a world-class creator during his tenure, now appears to have lost faith in the Portuguese international, accusing him of being a “pathetic loser” who, in his words, “drags the team down with his weak mentality.”

“Starting him is handing Spurs the trophy,” he continued. “This is a must-win match, and if he starts, we’re finished before kickoff. I’d honestly rather see someone like Scott McTominay or even Mason Mount in that role.”

The comments come at a time when Fernandes’ leadership has been under scrutiny. While some fans have admired his passion and playmaking abilities, others have questioned his attitude during tough fixtures, accusing him of throwing teammates under the bus and complaining to officials too often.

Despite the criticism, Fernandes has been instrumental in Manchester United’s journey to the final. With 17 goals and 14 assists this season, he has once again proven to be the creative heartbeat of the team. His recent performances helped United edge past strong opponents like AS Roma and Bayer Leverkusen on the road to Bilbao.

Notably, Fernandes also made history by joining Cristiano Ronaldo as the only player to win the Sir Matt Busby Player of the Year award four times—an achievement that underscores his importance to the club.

But Solskjær’s words have now cast a shadow over the final preparations. Sources close to the team suggest Erik ten Hag and his coaching staff were caught off-guard by the comments, with some insiders claiming there was “deep frustration” at what they see as “public sabotage” from the former boss.

Fans are divided. While some agree with Solskjær’s call for drastic measures to secure a win, others believe that removing Fernandes—arguably the team’s best player—would be a catastrophic miscalculation. “This is not the time for personal vendettas or ego trips,” wrote one supporter on X (formerly Twitter). “We need unity and experience on the pitch.”

Tensions between Fernandes and some figures within the club have simmered for months. Insiders claim there were internal disagreements earlier in the season about tactical responsibilities, and Fernandes is said to have clashed with Ten Hag over defensive duties in high-stakes matches.

As the final draws near, the pressure on Manchester United is immense. The club hasn’t lifted a European trophy since their Europa League triumph under José Mourinho in 2017, and fans are desperate for silverware to mark a new era under INEOS ownership.

Whether or not Solskjær’s advice is heeded remains to be seen. But one thing is certain: the spotlight will be firmly on Bruno Fernandes tonight. If he starts and shines, he may silence his doubters once and for all. But if United fall apart with him on the pitch, Solskjær’s brutal prophecy may be vindicated in the most painful fashion.

This final is not just about glory—it’s about redemption, revenge, and reputations on the line. Stay tuned as Real Sports brings you every twist, turn, and talking point from Bilbao. 👀🔥