Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has sent shockwaves through Old Trafford by claiming the club's hierarchy were prepared to let him leave during the summer transfer window.
Fernandes' Sensational Saudi Arabia Claim
In a candid interview with Canal 11, the subscription channel of the Portuguese Football Federation, the midfield talisman revealed he felt the club's stance was that his departure "would not be so bad for us". This bombshell directly contradicts previous public statements from both the player and the club, which insisted he remained a central figure in their long-term plans.
The controversy stems from a colossal financial package presented by Saudi Pro League giants Al-Hilal, who made a concerted effort to lure the 30-year-old away from the Premier League. While no official discussions took place with United, and Fernandes ultimately rejected the move, his latest comments paint a very different picture of the internal conversations.
A Contradiction in Stories
Back in October, ahead of his 300th appearance for the club, Fernandes had stated that both manager and club officials had made it clear they wanted him to stay. He explained at the time that had the club suggested cashing in on him due to his age, he would have sought a solution for himself and his family.
However, his narrative has now shifted dramatically. "The club wanted me to go, I have that in my head," Fernandes told Canal 11. "I told the directors this, but I think they didn't have the courage to make that decision. I decided to stay."
He expressed personal hurt over the perceived ambivalence, stating: "It hurts me a lot. More than hurting, it makes me sad because I'm a player who they have nothing to criticise about. I'm always available, and I always play - good or bad - I give my all."
United's Insistence and the Manager's Role
In response, insiders at Manchester United have strongly rebutted Fernandes' version of events. Sources close to the Manchester Evening News have emphasised that the club's hierarchy repeatedly made it clear throughout the summer that the Portuguese international was integral to their future vision.
Fernandes did concede that conversations with manager Ruben Amorim were pivotal in his decision to remain. "The conversation with the manager also made me stay," he admitted, citing family contentment in England and a genuine affection for the club as other key factors.
He also detailed discussions with chief executive Omar Berrada and technical director Jason Wilcox, which he said began during the club's pre-season tour in Malaysia. According to Fernandes, the executives acknowledged the "massive money" on offer from Saudi Arabia—a sum that would have shattered the club's record sale, currently the £20 million received for Daniel James—but maintained their desire for him to stay.
"They always said to me that they will buy, they will reinforce the team," Fernandes recounted. "The manager said to me... 'we want more players to help you to become a better team. So we don't want you to go.'"
The midfielder's contract at Manchester United runs until 2027, with an option for a further 12-month extension. This public airing of private frustrations, however, casts a new shadow over his future at the club and reveals a significant disconnect between the player's perception and the club's stated position during a critical summer period.
