Bruno Fernandes Backtracks on Explosive Man Utd Criticism After Club Intervention
Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes revealed that the club has "requested him to remain" on two different instances, directly opposing his recent statements where he claimed the Red Devils were eager for his departure.
The 31-year-old criticized Man Utd in a surprising interview on Tuesday, claiming the club's leadership lacked the "bravery" to transfer him last summer despite wanting to capitalize on a rumored £100 million ($134.2 million) move to Al Hilal.
Fernandes criticized the organization for putting financial gain above "everything else," and credited his continuation at Old Trafford to Ruben Amorim, who desired the midfielder to remain.
However, in a fresh interview on Rio Ferdinand Presents, the Portugal star offered a different version of events, one where the 20-time English title winners were determined to retain him in their colors.
"Since joining the club, beyond my love for being here and my affection for the organization, I believe my dedication showed during the most challenging times when I had two opportunities to depart," Fernandes explained. "The club responded 'no, we require you' and I replied 'Alright, you provided something for me, I will reciprocate.'"
Beyond Saudi Pro League attention, the former Sporting CP star hinted at possible moves to La Liga and Serie A, while also leaving open the possibility of an eventual homecoming to compete in Lisbon.
Nevertheless, Fernandes stayed committed to Man Utd, something he "trusts everyone at the organization recognizes" since he genuinely could have taken advantage of his "excellent" opportunities to depart.
Fernandes: Goal Continues to Be Winning Silverware at Man Utd
Despite all his recent discussions about a potential move, stemming from Man Utd's 2024–25 Europa League disappointment, Fernandes continues concentrating on bringing additional silverware to the club's storied trophy collection.
"I'm fully conscious that I could have chosen a different route and likely secured more championships with people discussing me differently due to having trophies in my collection," Fernandes shared with Ferdinand.
"When I discuss departing to win championships, I remained here because I believe I can still capture trophies at this club. I wouldn't have stayed if the organization hadn't assured me our objective remains to reach our highest potential, return to winning silverware, and become the club we once were.
"If that wasn't the goal then absolutely, I wouldn't have remained, but since I understand the club's ambition is still to return to where they aspire to be and where I want this organization to be, that's why I originally joined. If I can assist in getting back there, that's my sole desire."
Fernandes has contributed everything possible to restore the Red Devils to championship-winning status. The Portuguese midfielder has netted 103 goals across 307 matches for Man Utd since arriving in 2020, assisting the club in capturing the Carabao Cup in 2023 and the FA Cup the subsequent season.
However, it will require significantly more than Fernandes's personal talent and guidance to elevate Amorim's squad to the Premier League summit before the captain's deal concludes at the end of next campaign.