Brothers in Football: The Fernandes Family Journey from Manchester to Roffey
One brother is leading the effort to rebuild Manchester United, while the other is striving for promotion in the ninth-tier Southern Combination League.
Bruno Fernandes, 30, captains Manchester United at the 75,000-capacity Old Trafford, famously known as the 'Theatre of Dreams.' Meanwhile, his older brother Ricardo plays for Roffey FC, located 240 miles away in West Sussex, where the ground is affectionately nicknamed the 'Theatre of Trees.'
Roffey FC's home in Horsham recorded an average attendance of 133 last season, earning its nickname due to the surrounding trees.
Despite their positions in opposite tiers of English football, the Fernandes brothers share many similarities.
Both wear the number eight, play as central midfielders, have captained their respective teams, and are known for scoring spectacular goals.
“He saw it, it spread on the internet, it was great for me,” recalls Ricardo, referring to his remarkable goal against Seaford Town in a 2-0 victory in April 2024, which continues to gain traction on social media.
“The way we pass the ball and our style of play is similar. He’s at the 'Theatre of Dreams' at Old Trafford, while I’m at the 'Theatre of Trees' at Roffey.”
“Growing up, the dream was for both of us to become professionals. He’s made it, and I’m pleased to enjoy this journey alongside him.”
'I had to protect Bruno growing up'
The brothers were raised in Porto, with Portugal international Bruno being five years younger than Ricardo.
“He always liked to do little tricks and make tackles,” Ricardo told BBC Radio Sussex, admitting that it was “not easy” to manage his younger brother’s determination.
“I had to try to protect him in that way. He always wanted to play with older players, but that determination is what has driven him to the top.”
Ricardo moved to the UK in 2015, five years before Bruno signed with Manchester United. He made Sussex his home and began playing at Three Bridges FC.
To ensure a more “reliable” income, he also worked at East Surrey Hospital in Redhill.
Roffey support grows around the world
While Bruno's goals are more widely recognized, Ricardo's stunning strike against Seaford Town has amassed millions of views online.
Roffey FC's record attendance was achieved on Non-League Day this past March, drawing over 500 supporters, and Ricardo signed autographs for fans afterward.
Supporter groups have emerged in Africa and Portugal, with Roffey officials noticing an influx of new fans each week.
“I’ve signed him twice, and he’s scored a few goals similar to Bruno,” said manager Jack Munday. “The only difference is that Bruno plays at Old Trafford, while Ricardo plays here.”