Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has revealed that he turned down a highly lucrative move to Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal. The Portuguese midfielder said the proposal would have significantly increased his salary, but he chose to remain at Old Trafford to continue competing at the highest level.
The 30-year-old confirmed that he had taken time to consider the offer seriously and held conversations with his family before making a final decision. Despite the financial appeal, Fernandes ultimately chose to stay, prioritizing sporting ambition over money.
Speaking ahead of Portugal’s Nations League semi-final clash against Germany in Munich on Wednesday, Fernandes shared that Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim encouraged him to remain with the Premier League club.
Support from United and personal motivation
Fernandes stated that Manchester United did not pressure him to leave and had no financial reason to sell him. He explained, “The club told me they didn’t want to sell. They said if I wished to leave, I could, but it wasn’t necessary for them to cash in.”
He also mentioned that coach Ruben Amorim played a key role in convincing him to stay. Amorim, who recently took charge at United, consistently urged Fernandes to reject the transfer throughout the decision-making period.
Although the opportunity to join Al-Hilal was described as “exciting,” Fernandes said he remains focused on competing at the top level of European football. “I want to play in the biggest competitions,” he said. “This is what I love most, and I want to do it while I’m still capable.”
Fernandes noted that it would have been a simple choice to move, especially with fellow Portuguese internationals like Cristiano Ronaldo, João Cancelo, and Rúben Neves already playing in Saudi Arabia. Still, he reiterated his passion for the game and desire to compete at the highest standards.
Club reaction and career reflections
Manchester United are reportedly pleased with the midfielder’s choice to continue at the club. Amorim had expressed confidence last week that Fernandes would not leave, and the captain’s final decision has reinforced the belief in his commitment.
While there was no official approach from Al-Hilal to Manchester United, reports suggested the Saudi side was prepared to make an offer between £80 million and £100 million to secure the deal in time for the FIFA Club World Cup this month.
Since joining from Sporting CP for £47 million in January 2020, Fernandes has made 290 appearances and scored 98 goals for United. His leadership and consistency have made him a key figure at the club.
Former United defender Gary Neville commented that while the transfer could have made financial sense for the team, Fernandes’ decision to remain reflects his character. Neville praised his determination to stay through difficult times and help the team improve, describing it as a show of loyalty that would strengthen his connection with the fans.
