Fernandes scored his 18th goal for his country in their 2-0 Euro 2024 qualifying triumph over Iceland on Sunday. The United captain scored six goals and tallied seven assists as Portugal won all 10 of their group matches to book their place in Germany next summer.
Iceland were unable to qualify directly but are likely to have a possible route through to the tournament via the play-offs. Manager Hareide made sure to approach Fernandes after the final whistle to deliver a message from Solskjaer.
Solskjaer played 46 games under Hareide when he was boss at native club Molde. Solskjaer scored 34 times in his sole season at the club before United came calling.
He clearly made sure to contact Hareide to ask him to pass on some kind words to Fernandes. Speaking to Record about what the Iceland boss told him, the United star said: The Icelandic coach says he spoke to Solskjaer, who had sent me a hug.
Fernandes – who was brought to United by Solskjaer in January 2020 – was happy to get on the scoresheet in Lisbon with Portugal already through to the Euros prior to kick-off. He added: Everyone wants to score. Everyone wants to be important, to assist.
