‘Ten Hag’s blow’ – Bruno Fernandes problem emerges ahead Wolves clash

Manchester United may need Marcus Rashford to get his season started soon against Wolves on Monday. Erik ten Hag’s team open their Premier League campaign against Wolves at Old Trafford, but there are still questions regarding the Dutchman’s attacking prowess.

Rasmus Hojlund has completed a £72 million move from Atalanta to relieve Marcus Rashford’s goal-scoring burden.

However, the 20-year-old will miss the first few weeks of his debut season in England as he recovers from a back injury sustained during pre-season with Atalanta.

Ten Hag now has Rashford, Antony, Jadon Sancho, and Alejandro Garnacho to choose from in his front three, with Anthony Martial’s fitness still unknown.

Last season, Antony, Sancho, and Garnacho combined for 20 goals in all competitions, one less of Rashford’s career high of 30.

Ten Hag needed Bruno Fernandes to chip in with 14 goals on top of his 13 assists to propel United to third place and the Carabao Cup due to a dearth of goals in his attack.

However, his record against Wolves suggests that United may fall short of an attacking threat in their season opener at Old Trafford.

Fernandes has scored in his past three games for United, capping off the season with a flourish.

But, unlike Wolves, the Red Devils captain has only faced West Ham United ten times without scoring.

Ten Hag will be anxious to start his second season as manager with a statement win against a club in shambles, so Fernandes’ hoodoo could be a concern.

Wolves fired head coach Julen Lopetegui with only a few days of preseason left, replacing him with former AFC Bournemouth manager Gary O’Neil.

The Molineux team is likely to shut down against United, which could be a concern due to a lack of goal threat.

Garnacho is anticipated to play a larger role this season after breaking through last term, which will boost productivity in front of goal.

But Antony and Sancho have a big year ahead of them.

Antony has shown early promise since joining from Ajax for £85 million last summer, with eight goals and three assists. But those figures must rise if he is to be considered worthy of the price tag.

Meanwhile, Sancho is in his third season at Old Trafford and has yet to show the form that drew United to pay £72 million for his services in 2021.

Monday would be an ideal opportunity to demonstrate that the 2023/24 season will not be simply about Rashford.