Bruno Fernandes, Manchester United’s talismanic captain, has opted to reject a lucrative move to Saudi Arabia’s Al-Hilal, a club that reportedly dangled an eye-watering salary package and transfer fee to tempt the Portuguese midfielder. Despite the chance to significantly increase his income and reunite with fellow countrymen in the Saudi Pro League, Fernandes has made it clear—his heart remains at Old Trafford, where he aims to continue competing at the pinnacle of European football.
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Loyalty Over Luxury
In an era where financial allure often drives footballers’ decisions, Fernandes has bucked the trend. The 30-year-old playmaker was the subject of strong interest from Al-Hilal, who were prepared to offer Manchester United between £80 million and £100 million for his signature and nearly triple his current weekly wage of £250,000.
Fernandes admitted he was tempted. “It was an exciting offer,” he said. “It would have been easy to move to Saudi Arabia,” especially with Portuguese stars like Cristiano Ronaldo, João Cancelo, and Rúben Neves already playing there.
Yet, after thoughtful discussions with his family, he made a heartfelt decision. “I want to play at the highest possible level. I want to play major competitions. I know I still can and I want to be happy doing the thing I love the most,” he stated firmly. “For better or worse, this is how I see football and I’m passionate about football and this is the decision I’ve made.”
United’s Stance: No Pressure to Sell
The leadership at Manchester United made their position clear—they had no desire to part ways with their skipper. “Manchester United said they didn’t want to sell me,” Fernandes revealed. “They said if I wanted to go I could, but they didn’t need the money.” Manager Rúben Amorim also played a key role in convincing him to stay. “I spoke to coach Ruben Amorim who, throughout that period, he was pushing for me not to go.”
Despite Al-Hilal’s intentions, the Premier League giants never received a formal bid. Still, their reluctance to engage underscored the high regard in which Fernandes is held. With a contract running until 2027 and the option for an additional year, United consider him indispensable.
The Stats That Speak Volumes
Since arriving from Sporting Lisbon in January 2020 for £47 million, Fernandes has become the heartbeat of the Red Devils. Across all competitions, he has made 290 appearances, scored 98 goals, and registered 87 assists.
His consistency, creative influence, and ability to lead by example have made him one of the few signings in recent years that have delivered on both expectations and value.
Gary Neville: “A Decision That Will Endear Him to Fans”
Former United right-back and club legend Gary Neville weighed in on the midfielder’s decision. Speaking to Sky Sports, Neville praised Fernandes’ character, stating: “He’s so important. The fact that he wants to stay, the fact that he wants to go through this and come out the other side… will endear him towards Manchester United fans even more.”
Neville added: “To turn that money down at a point where Manchester United are at their lowest ebb and say, ‘No, I want to fight through this, I want to see it through the other side, I want to come out and achieve things,’ I think it says a lot about him as a person, as a character.”
Manager Amorim Confident All Along
Coach Rúben Amorim, who had earlier dismissed rumors of Fernandes leaving after United’s 3-1 friendly win over Hong Kong, said: “I think he wants to stay, he is saying ‘no’ to a lot of things… it shows that he wants to win and he is really good and needs to be in the best league in the world.”
Amorim acknowledged that rejecting such offers isn’t always easy but emphasized his belief in the project at United. “Yes [we can turn down a £100m bid], we can find another way to earn money,” he stated, reiterating the club’s faith in Fernandes.
Fernandes’ decision is seen as a significant morale boost at Old Trafford. While new signings may be expected in the transfer window, the club knows that keeping its captain was its most crucial move. As Gary Neville aptly put it, “He’s the only player who has the personality and courage needed—if he plays well, Man Utd always have a chance of winning a game.”
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FAQs
Why did Bruno Fernandes reject Al-Hilal’s offer?
Bruno Fernandes rejected Al-Hilal’s lucrative offer because he wants to play at the highest level and compete in major European competitions.
Did Manchester United want to sell Bruno Fernandes?
No, Manchester United made it clear they didn’t want to sell Bruno Fernandes and emphasized they didn’t need the money.
How much was Al-Hilal willing to pay Bruno Fernandes?
Al-Hilal reportedly offered to nearly triple Fernandes’ £250,000-a-week wages and proposed a transfer fee of up to £100 million.
What did Bruno Fernandes say about his decision to stay?
Bruno Fernandes said, “I want to play at the highest possible level… I want to be happy doing the thing I love the most.”
How has Bruno Fernandes performed at Manchester United?
Since joining in 2020, Bruno Fernandes has scored 98 goals and provided 87 assists in 290 matches for Manchester United.
