“That Was Nerve-Wracking!” — Ruben Amorim’s Dramatic Reaction to Bruno Fernandes’ Late Penalty Win for Manchester United

Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim could not hide his emotions on Saturday as his side secured their first Premier League win of the season in dramatic fashion against Burnley.

United left it late at Old Trafford, but a stoppage-time penalty from Bruno Fernandes handed the Red Devils a much-needed 3-2 victory, ending a worrying run of results and easing pressure on Amorim after a difficult start to life in England.

The Portuguese coach has come under the spotlight in recent days, especially after he was heavily criticised for refusing to watch his team’s penalty shootout against League Two side Grimsby Town in midweek, a tie United eventually lost and exited from the Carabao Cup. Many felt his decision to stay seated on the bench during the shootout painted the picture of a detached coach.

This time, however, Amorim made sure his focus was clear for all to see. As Fernandes stepped up to take the decisive penalty, television cameras caught the United boss standing nervously on the touchline, clearly anxious but determined to face the moment head-on.

When Fernandes calmly slotted home, Amorim’s relief was obvious. He pumped his fists and shared the celebrations with his coaching staff and players — a stark contrast to his midweek composure.

Ruben Amorim before Brunk took the penalty.

He was all of us. 😁❤️
pic.twitter.com/R0OSRnPk0h

— UF (@UtdFaithfuls) August 30, 2025

A Chaotic Afternoon at Old Trafford

The match itself was a rollercoaster. United took the lead early on after Burnley midfielder Josh Cullen inadvertently put the ball into his own net. But Burnley, who have looked far more dangerous this season under Vincent Kompany, struck back through Lyle Foster.

United quickly regained the advantage when Bryan Mbeumo found the back of the net, only for Jaidon Anthony to equalise again for Burnley. Just as it seemed United would be held to another frustrating draw, Amad Diallo was dragged down in the box by Anthony. The referee pointed to the spot, and up stepped Fernandes to seal the win deep into stoppage time.

The goal not only secured three vital points but also gave Amorim his first league victory as Manchester United manager.

Fans Rally Behind Amorim

Supporters were quick to react online, many choosing to praise Amorim’s visible passion during the penalty moment. One fan posted on X (formerly Twitter): ‘So happy for him.’ Another wrote: ‘This is why Manchester United are backing him, he has the interest of the club at heart.’

Others stressed how crucial the win was for both the squad and their manager. ‘He needed this win, even the players needed it. It doesn’t matter who we are playing against, a victory changes everything,’ one supporter noted.

The shift in tone from midweek criticism to post-match support highlights just how quickly perceptions can change in football.

What This Means for United

For Amorim, this result is more than just three points — it’s a statement. The 39-year-old knows that patience at Old Trafford is thin after years of inconsistency since Sir Alex Ferguson’s retirement. With expectations high and rivals strengthening, United’s early struggles had already sparked debate about whether Amorim was the right man for the job.

However, his willingness to stand firm in the spotlight during Fernandes’ penalty showed a manager learning from mistakes and embracing responsibility. It may seem like a small detail, but moments like this can define how players, fans, and the wider football community perceive a manager.

United’s win over Burnley lifts them away from the bottom of the table and provides a platform to build on. With fixtures against tougher opponents on the horizon, Amorim will hope this late victory serves as a turning point for the season.

Statistics underline how important this moment was: United had just one point from their opening two league matches before Saturday. The three points not only boost their standing but also ease the pressure on Amorim in what could have quickly spiraled into a crisis.

For now, United fans will remember the image of their manager anxiously awaiting Fernandes’ penalty and then celebrating like one of their own. It was a moment of connection — one that suggests Amorim is not only aware of the pressure he faces but also willing to stand front and center when the stakes are highest.

And that might just be what Manchester United needs right now.