Bruno Fernandes shuts down question after Man Utd lose Community Shield as he says ‘that was not the issue’

Bruno Fernandes was keen to not make any excuses for Manchester United’s Community Shield defeat to Manchester City at Wembley.

United drew 1-1 with City in the traditional season curtain-raiser, but lost 7-6 on penalties.

Bernardo Silva saw his spot kick for City saved by Andre Onana, but Ederson’s save from Jadon Sancho and Jonny Evans’ miss meant Pep Guardiola‘s side lifted the trophy.

But the Portugal international was quick to emphasise that was an issue for both sides – and wasn’t the reason why United lost.

He told MUTV: “I think it was for both sides. They also had some players who just came back. That was not the issue.

“It wasn’t about not being fit enough – everyone has been working.”

The two teams were affected by unavailability, with the City quartet of Rodri, Kyle Walker, Phil Foden and John Stones not yet back in training after competing in the Euro 2024 final last month.