Bruno Fernandes reveals Manchester United’s transfer intentions
Bruno Fernandes has given an astonishing interview, with the Manchester United star suggesting the club’s board wanted to sell him back in the summer transfer window when Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal were showing interest, reports BritPanorama.
The 31-year-old continues to lead by example at Old Trafford and, on Monday, netted a sensational free-kick in their 4-4 draw with Bournemouth.
Had the United board got their way, however, Fernandes’ moments of magic would have been a thing of the past. Al-Hilal were prepared to break the bank for the Portugal international, with the Saudi Pro League side willing to offer him lucrative wages alongside a significant transfer fee estimated at £100 million.
In the end, the deal collapsed with Fernandes making it clear he wanted to stay. Manager Ruben Amorim felt similarly, always determined to retain his star player. Nonetheless, Fernandes implied that figures such as Sir Jim Ratcliffe and other club executives would have welcomed his departure.
Speaking to Canal 11, Fernandes stated: “From the club’s side, it felt a bit like, ‘if you leave, it’s not so bad for us.’ It hurts me a bit.” He expressed sadness over his perceived expendability, affirming, “I’m always available, I always play, good or bad. I give my all.”
He further elaborated, “But it gets to a point where, for them, money is more important than anything. The club wanted me to go, I have that in my head. I told the directors that, but I think they didn’t have the courage to make that decision, because the manager wanted me.”
Despite his central role, the Portuguese player admitted he still feels uneasy about his future at the club. This season alone, he has been involved in 11 goal contributions from 16 Premier League matches while often dropping deeper into midfield.
Reflecting on the transient nature of football, Fernandes remarked, “Lately I feel like I’m on thin ice. In England, when a player starts approaching 30, they start thinking they need a makeover.” He noted a shift in how loyalty is perceived, highlighting the financial incentives players now face.
Fernandes made it clear he could have sought a lucrative move in the previous transfer window but opted to remain due to personal commitments and a genuine love for the club. Yet, the possibility of a future move to Saudi Arabia remains open. “If one day I have to play in Saudi Arabia, I’ll play in Saudi Arabia,” he stated, contemplating the change in lifestyle for his family after years spent in Manchester.
As the Premier League race intensifies, Fernandes’ situation serves as a reminder of the financial pressures and emotional complexities facing modern athletes, both on and off the pitch.
