Bruno Fernandes, the captain of Manchester United, disclosed that he turned down a lucrative offer from Saudi Arabia to remain at Old Trafford.
Bruno Fernandes has stated that he declined a substantial proposal from Saudi Arabia, opting instead to stay with Manchester United, as he wishes to continue playing at the pinnacle of the sport.
During a media session at a Portugal training camp before the Nations League semifinal against Germany in Munich on Wednesday, the midfielder revealed he had received an “exciting offer” from Al-Hilal but preferred to help manager Ruben Amorim’s efforts at United.
Sources indicated that Al-Hilal was prepared to pay up to 100 million British pounds ($135 million) to acquire the 30-year-old Portuguese player.
Fernandes shared that the Al-Hilal president reached out to him to discuss a potential move, saying the club “gave me time to reflect on my future.”
He mentioned he spoke with the manager, who encouraged him to stay, adding: “Manchester United expressed they didn’t wish to sell me.”
“They mentioned that if I really wanted to leave, I could, but they didn’t need the funds,” he continued.
Although a transfer would have been straightforward, given there are several Portuguese players already in Saudi Arabia like Cristiano Ronaldo, Joao Cancelo, and Ruben Neves, he remarked: “I desire to compete at the highest standard possible.”
“I want to participate in significant tournaments. I know I am capable of this, and I wish to find joy in what I love most.”
“Regardless of the circumstances, this is my perspective on football, and my passion drives this choice.”
Manchester United ‘needs’ Fernandes
United faced their worst finish in Premier League history, ending up in 15th place. They also fell to Tottenham in the Europa League final.
Fernandes, as the club captain, was among the few players who performed well during a challenging season, netting 19 goals and providing 19 assists across all competitions.
Former United captain Gary Neville, now a Sky Sports analyst, described Fernandes’ decision as “significant.”
“There was an aspect of this situation that might have let United cash in on Bruno at his age, which could be seen as a favorable move,” he commented.
“However, Bruno has been Manchester United’s standout player, at times their only star, over the last several years. His importance cannot be overstated.”
Neville further noted: “To turn down such money at a time when Manchester United is struggling, and to express a desire to fight through this period shows a lot about his character and determination.”
“The club needs individuals willing to go the extra mile for them.”
United is anticipated to be active in the transfer market as Amorim works to rejuvenate his under-performing roster.
The club has already acquired Brazilian forward Matheus Cunha from Wolves and is reportedly interested in Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo.
Possible departures could involve Jadon Sancho, Marcus Rashford, Antony, and Alejandro Garnacho.
Since joining from Sporting Lisbon in January 2020 for 47 million pounds ($63 million), Fernandes has played 290 matches and scored 98 goals for United.
