Bruno Fernandes Breaks Silence on Massive Al Hilal Offer: "The Numbers Were Staggering"
Bruno Fernandes has revealed that Manchester United ultimately decided to reject a potential move to Saudi Arabian club Al Hilal during the summer transfer window.
Following United's defeat to Tottenham Hotspur in the Europa League final, Fernandes surprised the Red Devils by hinting at a potential departure in the transfer market, stating he would consider leaving Old Trafford if the club no longer desired his services.
This generated attention from Al Hilal, who sought a marquee signing ahead of the Club World Cup. United allegedly received a transfer offer worth £100 million ($135.7 million), with Fernandes potentially earning £1 million per week, though the rumors eventually faded away.
"I understand that figures are crucial in football," Fernandes shared with the Sydney Morning Herald. "Clearly it represented a substantial sum that the club could have received for me. So I recognize how difficult it was for the club.
"During my conversation with Al Hilal's president, I spoke with him once and explained, 'I've never considered departing, I value your interest. Whatever you wish to pursue, you can discuss with the club,' because I've consistently maintained that if the club wanted to transfer me, then certainly, I would need to decide. But if the club refuses, I don't need to decide, because my goal is to remain here.
"It represents significant money for me as well, but that's how it is. Individuals make choices in their lives. I won't have regrets because this is where I want to be and this is where I want to achieve success too."
Jorge Jesus, former Al Hilal coach and current Al Nassr manager, recently acknowledged that Fernandes's resolve to stay with United helped cause the negotiations to break down, with Al Hilal unable to complete a deal before the Club World Cup commenced.
Now dedicated to remaining with United, Fernandes is concentrated on recovering from a disappointing season last year. The Portugal midfielder has lofty goals but is focusing solely on Sunday's Premier League season opener against Arsenal.
"Standards at this club are consistently elevated," Fernandes added.
"It's irrelevant whether you're rebuilding or not. Manchester United doesn't have time for rebuilding. You simply must begin strongly again. That's it. Nobody will suggest that rebuilding is necessary. At Manchester United, time is not a luxury. You must deliver immediately.
"We're prepared for that challenge. We're ready to do whatever is required to defeat Arsenal. We will organize ourselves optimally to face one of the Premier League's most formidable teams in recent seasons. We're going to approach it in the best manner possible.
"I've consistently stated my desire to capture the Premier League with this club. I want to claim the Champions League. I want to secure every trophy that I compete for with the club. Who wouldn't? But my focus now must be Arsenal…because earning those three points will bring me closer to my future ambitions."