Bruno Fernandes
Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes is reportedly contemplating his future at the club, with potential plans to depart next summer. This consideration comes despite having previously turned down a lucrative offer from Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal. The Saudi Pro League outfit had proposed a staggering £100 million deal, offering Fernandes a weekly wage of £700,000, which could have amounted to approximately £200 million over a three-year contract. However, recent reports suggest that Al-Ittihad, another Saudi club, has engaged in discussions with Fernandes’ representatives about a possible transfer. According to the Daily Mail, Fernandes is keen to remain at United for another season to avoid any disruptions ahead of the 2026 World Cup. He is reportedly open to the idea of joining a club in Saudi Arabia, America, or another major European league in the future.
Bruno Fernandes said: “I haven’t fulfilled my dreams here yet. I think I can still give something to the club. I think I’m still in a position where I’m helpful so the thing for me is that I will be here until the club decides that ‘Bruno, it’s time to go’. Obviously, I know it was tough on the club to decide that because it was a big amount of money that the club hasn’t got probably since Cristiano [Ronaldo] left, he was the last one where they got so much money for a player. I know for the club it was tough to decide. Because on one side I’m the club captain, I’m important for them, even if at times I’ve not been great, I’ve been performing and everything. I know that in the public eye it will be bad if things go wrong. But it would be very good if things go well – if they sell me and they get more players and whatever. But in my mind I’ve always said that this is the place I want to be. Obviously I know people will have different opinions – he’s 30 years old, he’s getting old.”
He continued: “It was a very ambitious proposal. The president was a fantastic person. We never discussed the amount [initially]. With my agent? Of course. Then, I spoke to my wife and family, and she asked me what my personal goals were in my career. She was someone who always supported me a lot. It was an easy move, even at a family level. I had Joao Cancelo there, my children are used to playing with him in the national team, we have a great friendship.”
Fernandes’ decision to stay at Manchester United for the time being comes amidst significant transfer activity at the club. United recently invested £130 million in acquiring Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha, both of whom are expected to compete for the No.10 position, a role Fernandes has predominantly occupied. This influx of talent could influence Fernandes’ future role at the club, potentially prompting United to consider cashing in on their captain while he remains a valuable asset.
As Fernandes weighs his options, the football world watches closely to see how his career will unfold. With the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, his decisions in the coming months could shape not only his personal journey but also Manchester United’s strategic direction in the transfer market.