Bruno Fernandes was keen to not make any excuses for Manchester United’s Community Shield defeat to Manchester City at Wembley.
United ended 1-1 with City in the traditional season opener but lost 7-6 in the penalty shootout.
Bernardo Silva’s penalty for City was saved by Andre Onana, but Ederson’s save from Jadon Sancho and Jonny Evans’ missed penalty led to Pep Guardiola’s team winning the trophy.
It was a hard way for the match to conclude for United, who went ahead in the 82nd minute, only to have Bernardo Silva equalize just seven minutes later.
However, there were still positives for Erik ten Hag’s team, who will aim to improve upon last season’s seventh-place finish in the Premier League.
After the match, Fernandes was asked about the impact of several United players returning from vacation on their performance.
However, the Portugal international was quick to point out that this was an issue for both teams and not the reason for United’s loss.
He told MUTV: “I think it was an issue for both sides. They also had players returning. That wasn’t the problem.
“It wasn’t about fitness – everyone has been training.”
Both teams faced availability issues, with City’s Rodri, Kyle Walker, Phil Foden, and John Stones still out of training after participating in the Euro 2024 final last month.
In contrast, both Kobbie Mainoo and Lisandro Martinez—who played in the Copa America final for Argentina—started the game, while Luke Shaw was not included in the squad.
Rasmus Hojlund, Victor Lindelof, and new signing Leny Yoro were also unavailable due to injury.
United will return to action on Friday, kicking off their Premier League campaign against Fulham at Old Trafford.