“A Moment of Real Class”—Peter Crouch Left Stunned by two United star's Brilliant Link-Up in Man United’s Win Over Aston Villa

Peter Crouch has praised a “real moment of class” from Bruno Fernandes and Amad Diallo as Manchester United ended their disappointing Premier League season on a high with a 2-0 victory over Aston Villa.

The Red Devils finished in 15th place — their lowest ever in the Premier League era — but showed glimpses of what could be a brighter future under new manager Ruben Amorim. United controlled the match at Villa Park, holding 64% possession and forcing Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez into several crucial saves before he was eventually sent off for a reckless foul on Rasmus Højlund.

It was a strong showing from Amorim’s side, who had 10 shots on target compared to Villa’s single effort, and it could’ve been more had it not been for Martínez’s heroics in the first half.

One of the goals on the day came from Christian Eriksen, who was given the chance to score on his final appearance for the club after being allowed to take a penalty by captain Bruno Fernandes. But it was United’s opening goal — created by Fernandes and finished brilliantly by Amad — that caught the eye of former England striker Peter Crouch.

Speaking after the match on TNT Sports, Crouch was full of praise for United’s opener, which came in the 76th minute. Fernandes floated a perfectly-weighted ball into the box, and Amad rose to head it home.

“We can get caught up in the controversy, but United deserved this win,” said Crouch. “That first goal — it was a moment of real class. Bruno Fernandes is such a tidy player. He put it right on the money, and Amad finished it brilliantly at the back post.”

Both players have been standout performers for United this season, with Fernandes involved in 34 goals in all competitions and Amad impressing with 19 of his own.

It was a goal that showed the chemistry and quality between the two, and it reminded fans of Amad’s first goal for the club — a header against AC Milan in the Europa League back in 2021.

The win over Villa also marked the end of the road for several United players. Jonny Evans, Victor Lindelöf, and Eriksen are all expected to leave the club this summer.

Bruno Fernandes, who has regularly taken penalties for United, was seen giving the ball to Eriksen — a touching gesture that allowed the Danish midfielder to sign off with a goal.

After the game, manager Ruben Amorim said it was an emotional but promising day for the club.

Ruben Amorim has been under pressure since taking over at Old Trafford, but Sunday’s performance may have turned a corner. He was quick to encourage fans after the game, declaring, “The good days are coming.”

The style of football on display was fast, attacking, and creative — something United fans have long been hoping to see. Amorim’s system saw Fernandes and Eriksen operate behind wing-backs Amad and Patrick Dorgu, who provided both width and threat in the final third.

While some had doubted whether Amorim’s formation would work in the Premier League, Sunday’s match showed just how dangerous his tactics can be when the right players are in place.

Even when Mason Mount replaced Eriksen in the second half, United continued to dominate possession and create chances.

With Joshua Zirkzee looking more confident in his new attacking role and Wolves forward Matheus Cunha reportedly close to joining the club, the future looks a lot brighter than the final league position suggests.

If United can add a clinical striker or help Højlund rediscover the scoring form he showed in last season’s Champions League, there’s every reason to believe the team can rise back up the table next year.

With attacking midfielders and wing-backs now creating plenty of chances under Amorim’s system, a few smart signings in the summer transfer window could make a huge difference.

The win over Aston Villa may not change the league standings, but it did offer something far more valuable: belief. And if performances like Sunday’s become more regular, Manchester United might finally be heading back in the right direction.