‘Champ’… Bruno Fernandes Sends Message to Manchester United Loanee After He Wins League Title
Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has sent a heartfelt congratulatory message to one of the club’s promising young stars on loan after he secured a historic league title with his temporary side. The Portugal international took to social media to praise fellow Red Devil Hannibal Mejbri, who played a role in Sevilla FC’s stunning La Liga triumph, calling him “Champ” and hailing his progress away from Old Trafford.
The gesture not only reflected Fernandes’ leadership and camaraderie but also highlighted the significance of United’s developing youth players making their mark across Europe. As Manchester United undergo a transitional period both on and off the pitch, moments like these reinforce the importance of the club’s loan strategy — one aimed at giving emerging talents the chance to grow in top-flight football environments.
Let’s take a deeper look at the context of Hannibal’s success, Bruno Fernandes’ message, and what it all means for Manchester United’s future.
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Hannibal Mejbri: A Title-Winning Season in Spain
When Hannibal Mejbri left Manchester United on loan at the beginning of the 2024/25 season, there was much speculation about how he would fare in a top European league. The Tunisian midfielder had shown flashes of potential at Old Trafford but struggled for consistent playing time under Erik ten Hag. A loan move to Sevilla was arranged with the goal of giving him regular first-team football in a competitive environment.
Few could have predicted just how successful that move would turn out to be.
Under Sevilla manager Quique Sánchez Flores, Hannibal quickly became a central figure in the team’s dynamic midfield. His energy, aggression, and technical ability allowed him to thrive in La Liga’s tactical system, and his maturity on the ball impressed fans and pundits alike. Over the course of the season, he made 28 appearances, scored three crucial goals, and contributed five assists — playing a vital role in Sevilla’s surprise title charge.
After clinching the La Liga title on the final day of the season, Hannibal was seen celebrating passionately with his teammates. Amid the celebrations, a message from Manchester arrived — one that would resonate with any young footballer dreaming of making it big.
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Bruno Fernandes’ Message: ‘Champ’ and More
Shortly after Sevilla’s title win was confirmed, Bruno Fernandes took to Instagram and Twitter to send his congratulations to Hannibal. Sharing a photo of the young midfielder lifting the trophy, Fernandes simply wrote:
“Champ. Proud of you, brother. Keep going.”
Though brief, the message carried weight. As United’s club captain, Fernandes is known for his intense drive and leadership on and off the pitch. His decision to publicly celebrate Hannibal’s success sends a strong signal: Manchester United values and supports its young talent, even when they are out on loan.
It also demonstrates Fernandes’ growing influence within the club as a figurehead — someone who not only leads by example in matches but also mentors and supports the next generation.
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The Importance of Loan Success Stories
For Manchester United, loan moves haven’t always gone to plan. Over the past decade, countless youth players have been sent out with hopes of development, only to return without having gained significant experience. Hannibal’s loan spell, however, represents a clear success story. Not only has he grown as a player, but he’s also been exposed to the pressure and standards of a title-winning campaign — something few players his age can claim.
His success raises important questions for Manchester United’s hierarchy:
Should Hannibal be reintegrated into the first-team squad next season?
Could he offer energy and depth to a midfield often criticized for lacking dynamism?
Or should the club consider cashing in while his value is high?
These are questions new technical director Jason Wilcox and sporting director-in-waiting Dan Ashworth will have to answer this summer. But one thing is clear — Hannibal’s performances have not gone unnoticed.
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Fernandes’ Role in Supporting Young Talent
Bruno Fernandes’ message to Hannibal isn’t an isolated incident. Over the past two seasons, he has been seen mentoring young talents at United — from Alejandro Garnacho to Kobbie Mainoo. His active role in fostering a supportive environment for younger players is one of the reasons he has retained the captain’s armband despite the club’s turbulent season.
In the age of social media and hyper-visibility, such gestures — no matter how small — play a role in shaping morale and culture at the club. Fernandes’ public acknowledgment of Hannibal’s achievements shows he is invested not just in results at Old Trafford, but in the broader Manchester United ecosystem.
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What’s Next for Hannibal Mejbri?
With the La Liga season over and the title celebrations winding down, attention now turns to Hannibal’s future. Sevilla are reportedly interested in making the move permanent, while other La Liga and Serie A clubs have been alerted to his performances.
Manchester United, however, hold the cards. The Tunisian international is under contract until 2026, with an option to extend by a year. Whether Erik ten Hag — or any incoming manager — sees a role for him remains to be seen.
Hannibal himself has expressed a desire to succeed at Old Trafford. In a recent post-match interview with Spanish media, he said:
“I’ve learned so much this season. Winning the league has been a dream, but my ambition is still to make it at Manchester United. That’s where I want to prove myself.”
Such comments will only add to the intrigue as United enter a summer of change and decisions.
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A Symbol of Hope for United’s Future
As Manchester United work to rebuild under INEOS and Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s ownership group, success stories like Hannibal’s represent the kind of long-term thinking the club desperately needs. Rather than spending heavily on every position, identifying and nurturing existing talent could save millions — and restore the club’s identity as a breeding ground for world-class players.
Bruno Fernandes’ message may have been short and sweet, but it points to a broader, more optimistic narrative: one of unity, support, and belief in the club’s youth. And for players like Hannibal Mejbri, it’s a reminder that no matter where you win your titles, Manchester United are watching.
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Conclusion
“Champ.” With that single word, Bruno Fernandes encapsulated the pride of an entire fanbase watching one of their own succeed abroad. Hannibal Mejbri’s league-winning campaign with Sevilla is more than just a personal triumph — it’s a beacon of what Manchester United’s youth system can still produce.
As the Red Devils look to reshape their identity and squad, stories like this are exactly what the club needs. And thanks to leaders like Bruno Fernandes, the next generation k
nows that the path from loanee to first-team star is not only possible — it’s celebrated.
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