Bruno Fernandes Shares the Story of How He Watched Portugal Win Euro 2016

11 July 2020 16:30

Manchester United midfielder Bruno Fernandes has lifted the lid on his celebrations following Portugal’s Euro 2016 win.


The Portuguese midfielder has enjoyed a meteoric rise to prominence, however - having only earnt international recognition in 2017 - he wasn’t selected for his country’s maiden European Championship triumph four years ago.


Fernandes has become an integral part of the Portugal squad since his debut in 2017

Fernandes, who was plying his trade at Serie A side Udinese at the time of the tournament, has revealed he opted to watch the final against France alone in his hotel room - rather than with his two French teammates, Thomas Heurtaux and Cyril Théréau - and that he made no secret of his jubilation following the win.


"I remember watching the game alone in my room,” the Portuguese midfielder said as quoted by Goal. “Everyone else was watching it on a giant screen. I said no, I'll watch it alone in the room because they'll bring bad luck, so let me stay here.


"I stayed in my room alone. The moment we scored the goal I ran across the hotel! I ran to where they were all watching, screaming all the way from my room to where they were! Screaming!


"I got there and they were obviously devastated, the two French guys, and I was really ecstatic. I think that as a Portuguese, regardless of whether you're actually involved in Portugal's successes or not, you have to feel proud."


Eder's late strike saw raucous celebrations ensure following the Euro 2016 final

The Manchester United man went on to explain that his country’s win had added significance, as he had made a bet with one of his teammates prior to the match which he still holds evidence of to this day.


"I bet with Heurtaux that whoever lost would take a picture with the other and post it on social media," he added. "Even today my photo is still there on my social networks – and on his social networks too, I believe."


Despite missing out on Portugal's Euro 2016 win, Fernandes has become a key part of his country's national side since his debut, making 19 appearances and scoring two goals.


The 25-year-old has caused quite a stir since arriving in the Premier League in January, notching seven goals in his first ten games and being named Player of the Month for June.


Source: 90min