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Fernandes reveals emotional reaction to United's summer transfer approach
Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has disclosed that he felt hurt after sensing the club was open to his departure during the summer transfer window, when Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal tabled a lucrative bid.
The Al-Hilal proposal
The 31-year-old Portugal international rejected a move to the Saudi club, which reportedly included a transfer fee of approximately £100 million and weekly wages of up to £700,000. Fernandes, who has a contract with United until 2027 with an option for an additional year, would have more than doubled his current earnings had he accepted the offer.
Fernandes' perspective
In an interview with Canal 11, a channel owned by the Portuguese Football Federation, Fernandes reflected on the club's stance during the negotiations. "From the club, I felt it was, 'If you go, it's not so bad for us.' It hurts me a bit," he said.
Expanding on his emotions, Fernandes added, "More than hurting me, it makes me sad. I'm a player that no one can criticise-I'm always available, I always give my best."
He acknowledged the financial and competitive incentives of the move, stating, "I could have left in this transfer window. I would have earned much more money. I would have won many trophies this season, but I decided not to go-not only for family reasons but because I genuinely love the club."
United's internal dynamics
Fernandes revealed a divide within the club regarding his future. "The club wanted me to leave. I told the directors that. I think they didn't have the courage to make that decision because the manager wanted me," he said. "But if I had said I wanted to leave, even with the manager wanting me to stay, the club would have let me."
In June, Fernandes had cited his desire to "play at the highest level" as a key reason for staying at Old Trafford, with Sporting CP manager Ruben Amorim reportedly urging him to remain with United.
Fernandes' contributions and future
Since joining United from Sporting CP in January 2020 for £47 million, Fernandes has made 307 appearances, scoring 103 goals and providing 93 assists. This season, he has contributed five goals and seven assists in the Premier League, including a standout free-kick and an assist in Monday's 4-4 draw with Bournemouth.
Despite the summer speculation, sources indicate that Manchester United have no intention of selling Fernandes and continue to view him as central to their long-term plans. Fernandes himself stated in October that he would not discuss his future with anyone until after next year's World Cup.
