Martin Tyler apologises to Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes for deliberate error

Former Sky Sports commentator Martin Tyler has apologised to Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes for consistently mispronouncing his name.

Tyler, who was replaced as the lead commentator by Peter Drury last summer, admitted that he deliberately pronounced Fernandes’ name incorrectly because the authentic pronunciation would be too different for English listeners. Speaking on his podcast, The Joy Of Football, Tyler said: “Portuguese is really difficult.

“The Manchester United number eight is Bruno Fer-nanj. And if I said that, I’d be laughed out of the commentary box, wouldn’t I? But that’s what it is.”

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He added: “We get sent… it’s very good of the Premier League, they get the players who must get fed up with doing it every year they say their name to the camera so that the world broadcasters can get it.

“And Bruno comes up and goes ‘Bruno Fer-nanj’ and we all call him ‘Bruno Fer-nan-des’. Bruno, my apologies!”

Tyler, when asked about the difference in the pronunciation of players’ names among elite commentators, acknowledged: “There’s a bit, but I think we all feel [differently].

“Some are very linguistically good, some totally find it really difficult and want to anglicise everything. But if you can, get access to the player and ask the player.”

The experienced commentator added: “The viewers need consistency really, but when you’ve spoken to a player and he’s made it quite clear that that’s how he wants his name said, you can’t really be responsible for the other commentators if they choose to do it a different way.

“I think everyone knows in the end. At least now we’ve got the names on the back of the shirts haven’t we.”

Fernandes was acquired from Sporting at a cost of around £67m, making him the fifth most expensive signing in United’s history at the time. His immediate impact was noticeable as he led the team’s charge towards Champions League qualification, scoring 12 goals in his first 22 appearances.

The Portuguese international maintained this impressive form in his debut full season, contributing 28 goals and 17 assists across 58 games and quickly becoming a fan favourite at Old Trafford. Despite not matching his initial explosive numbers, Fernandes has consistently performed to a high standard throughout his time at United.

In July of last year, Fernandes was appointed as the new captain of United, taking over from Maguire, who was relieved of his duties by Erik ten Hag. Despite a challenging season for the Reds, Fernandes has continued to shine, leading the Premier League in chances created and netting 10 goals.