Bruno Fernandes Reveals Shocking Man Utd Plans Following Ruben Amorim's Explosive Exit
Manchester United supporters can breathe easy regarding Bruno Fernandes' potential departure, as the skipper remains "dedicated" to the club despite recent turbulence.
The Portuguese midfielder rejected what he described as a "highly attractive" proposal from Al Hilal during the previous summer window, with reports suggesting the offer was valued at approximately £36 million ($48.1 million) per year.
United could have secured £100 million as a transfer fee, but the playmaker disclosed that the club "had no intention of selling" at that moment, unless he specifically requested a departure. Fernandes stated he would only consider leaving if United no longer valued his services. His commitment to remaining "at elite European level" also influenced his choice.
Questions surrounding the 31-year-old's long-term plans have persisted.
A December interview with Canal 11 in Portugal reignited speculation when Fernandes suggested the United leadership "desired my departure" but "lacked the boldness" to pursue it openly. "Had I expressed a wish to leave, they would have facilitated it." He admitted this situation "pained" him.
Curiously, another interview published days later on Rio Ferdinand's YouTube platform presented Fernandes offering a somewhat modified and gentler account. "I had two opportunities to depart. The club responded 'no, we require you.' Fine, you provided something for me, I'll reciprocate."
Fernandes previously mentioned that Ruben Amorim convinced him to remain last summer, with the club retaining him because "the manager needed me." Naturally, when Amorim was relieved of his duties at the beginning of 2026, fresh rumors emerged about his future at United.
However, his attention currently stays with the club. BBC Sport reports that Fernandes "has no intention of pursuing a transfer" during the remaining January window. Despite Amorim's exit, Darren Fletcher's brief oversight of two matches, and Michael Carrick's temporary appointment for the season's conclusion, Fernandes remains "devoted."
Fernandes Will 'Reassess' in the Summer
Fernandes Will 'Reassess' in the Summer
Nevertheless, the matter isn't resolved. His current commitment to finishing the campaign with United doesn't eliminate the possibility of a separation when summer arrives.
The identical BBC report indicates that Fernandes plans to evaluate his alternatives, at which time he'll have twelve months remaining on his 2024 contract extension.
United are reportedly preparing for midfield reinforcements regardless, with links to Elliot Anderson, Carlos Baleba and Adam Wharton, potentially requiring investments up to £100 million. Whether Fernandes' departure would benefit both sides at that juncture remains uncertain and will ultimately depend on his personal decision, as United seem prepared to respect his wishes.
The Saudi Arabian option will likely remain available, though the appeal of close companions like João Cancelo and Rúben Neves may have diminished. Cancelo has departed Al Hilal for Barcelona on loan following reports of his dissatisfaction, while Neves is also anticipated to return to European football when his Riyadh club contract concludes in June.
If Fernandes does depart Manchester during the summer, he would still "prefer to remain in Europe."