Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has made a stunning revelation, stating that the club's hierarchy was willing to let him leave for Saudi Arabia during the last summer transfer window.
A Shocking Admission of United's Stance
In a candid interview with Portuguese outlet Canal 11, the 31-year-old Portuguese midfielder opened up about a lucrative offer from Saudi Pro League giants Al-Hilal. The bid, worth a substantial £80 million, was presented to Manchester United during their post-season tour in May. Despite the significant financial incentive for the club, Fernandes personally rejected the move.
Fernandes expressed his disappointment, revealing he felt "saddened" by the perception that Manchester United were keen for him to move on. "Manchester United wanted me to leave, I have that in my head," he stated bluntly. He believes the club's leadership lacked the "courage" to push the deal through because manager Ruben Amorim desired to keep him, but the sentiment from above was clear: his departure "wouldn't be so bad."
Loyalty Versus Modern Football's Reality
The playmaker sought advice from former teammate and Saudi-based star Cristiano Ronaldo but emphasized the final decision was his alone. His choice to stay at Old Trafford was driven by a genuine love for the club and family considerations, but he lamented that loyalty is no longer valued as it once was.
"I could have left in the last transfer window and I would have earned much more money," Fernandes admitted. "The issue of loyalty isn't viewed the same way it used to be... It hurts me a bit. More than hurting, it makes me sad because I'm a player who [there is] nothing to criticise. I'm always available, I always play."
He contrasted his commitment with others at the club, hinting at frustration: "Then, you see things around you, players who don't value the club as much and don't defend the club as much… that makes you sad."
Future Open to Saudi Move
While he stayed this time, Fernandes did not rule out a future move to the Middle East. "If one day I have to play in Saudi Arabia, I'll play in Saudi Arabia," he said, citing lifestyle benefits like sunshine for his children after years in Manchester's rain.
He concluded by reinforcing his sense of betrayal, stating the club's desire for him to go is firmly in his head. He claimed that had he explicitly asked to leave, the directors would have sanctioned the transfer, protected only by the manager's wish to retain him.
Despite the off-field turmoil, Fernandes remains a key performer on the pitch. This season, he has contributed to 11 goals in 16 Premier League appearances, including scoring in the recent 4-4 draw against Bournemouth.
