There is so much about the 2021/22 season that Manchester United fans will be eager to put behind them this summer.
As Erik ten Hag begins his rebuild at Old Trafford, United supporters will be keeping their fingers crossed that some fresh faces will improve their team's fortunes next season. They’ll also be hoping for more from some of the current crop of players, not least Bruno Fernandes.
Having impressed so much in his first 18 months at the club, last season proved to be an underwhelming campaign for the Portugal international. And fans grew increasingly frustrated with his constant moaning at referees amid United’s slump.
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The 27-year-old’s protestations seemed to grow more frequent throughout the campaign as his own form dipped alarmingly. Interestingly, it’s a trait that has also been noticed in one of Ten Hag’s transfer targets this summer.
The United boss is eyeing up a reunion with Frenkie de Jong, with United making contact with Barcelona over a potential move. If he is to make the switch to Old Trafford, the Dutchman may have to curb his badgering of the officials.
De Jong’s protests were picked up by former Real Madrid star Rafael van der Vaart following the Netherlands' latest Nations League encounter with Poland. Van der Vaart issued some advice which could come in handy should De Jong complete a move to United.
“I have more of a fatherly advice than a question: you know how much of a fan I am, but always complaining to referees takes you out of your game. You were marked very well today, Poland just did it very well,” Van der Vaart said.
“You get irritated and then you are the first to reach the referee, especially in the second half. You are so good, you don't have to worry about the referee. Let it go.”
De Jong responded: “My friends and family sometimes tell me 'don't be so wild with the referee'. I always run to referees with my arms in the air. It might look a little too aggressive sometimes.
“I can certainly minimize that, but every now and then I think it's good to put pressure on the referee.”
That admission should certainly come as some encouragement to United fans. De Jong is clearly aware that his complaints to referees can be viewed as an issue, and knows he can afford to hold back at times.
It’s an example supporters will hope Fernandes can follow, having been left increasingly infuriated by his attempts to hound the referee last season, seemingly at the expense of his own form. Perhaps if De Jong joins this summer, the pair can share the duty between them.
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