BRUNO FERNANDES has spoken out about the rumours that he could move to the Saudi Pro League this summer
Bruno Fernandes, the Manchester United captain and one of Portugal’s highest-profile midfielders, has recently addressed speculation linking him with a move to the Saudi Pro League. What follows is a breakdown of what he actually said, how he and others around him reacted, what the context is, and what it might mean for his future.
—
What Fernandes Has Said
1. Rejected a Big Offer from Al-Hilal
Fernandes has confirmed that earlier this year he received an “exciting offer” from Saudi Arabia — specifically Al-Hilal. He was reportedly contacted by the president of Al-Hilal a month before the news broke.
2. Talks with Key People Were Important
In making his decision to stay, Fernandes says he spoke in detail with several parties:
With Ruben Amorim (his manager) — who “really tried to talk me out of it.”
With Manchester United — the club told him they did not want to sell him.
With his family and wife — weighing professional goals, personal life, what he wants. His wife asked what his professional goals were, and the family’s input was part of the process.
3. Reason for Staying
Fernandes’ primary reason for rejecting the move was his desire to continue playing at the highest level in Europe, competing in the “big competitions.” He emphasized that “playing major competitions” is central to how he sees his own career. He also said that staying happy doing what he loves is important.
4. Status of the Door to Saudi Arabia
Although he rejected the offer, he has not “closed the door” entirely to a potential move in the future. He stressed that his decision “was not related to the World Cup” or other external pressure, but more to do with what he feels is right for his club career right now.
5. Where He Stands Now
Currently, he maintains that he is happy at Manchester United. He expressed contentment with his role, and affirmed that both he and the club want him to continue being part of Old Trafford’s project.
—
What Others Have Said
Manchester United & Ruben Amorim
United has made it clear that Fernandes is not for sale. They conveyed that they do not want to sell him (unless, presumably, everything lines up and it’s mutual). Amorim in particular has praised Fernandes, recognized his importance, and made efforts to convince him to stay.
Media / Transfer Experts
Transfer experts like Fabrizio Romano have suggested that while a Saudi move for Fernandes might be possible in the future, there was nothing imminent this summer. The rumours about Al-Hilal and Al-Ittihad were strong, but as of the summer window they were not “advanced” or finalized.
—
Why this Matters (Context & Implications)
Several factors make this more than just another transfer rumour. Some of the relevant considerations:
1. Financial temptation vs. professional ambition
The salary put on the table by Al-Hilal was reportedly multiple times what he currently earns. But Fernandes clearly values competing in top European competitions, his legacy, and maintaining a certain level of play over simply maximizing immediate financial gain. For many players, Saudi clubs are appealing primarily for wages; Fernandes’s stance suggests other priorities.
2. Manchester United’s situation
After a disappointing season (United finishing 15th in the Premier League, missing out on Champions League, etc.), there are wider structural issues at the club — management changes, squad rebuilding, etc. Having Fernandes commit to staying is a stabilizing factor. United will be counting on him to lead that rebuild. If key players start leaving, that makes things much harder.
3. Age, Contract & Future Windows
Fernandes is 30 (as of the statements). He has a contract running until 2027, with an option for an extra year in some reports. That means a move in 2025-26 would have to coincide with United’s willingness to sell, his own desire, and a suitable offer. Also, given his age, staying in Europe and performing well could be more attractive in the short term, especially with things like the 2026 World Cup coming up.
4. Public perception and leadership
By rejecting the Saudi offer, Fernandes reinforces his image as someone who is committed to winning, playing at elite level, not just chasing money. That helps burnish his leadership credentials, both at club and country. It might also influence how fans, teammates, and prospective suitors view him.
—
What We Don’t Know / Uncertainties
What exactly was on the table
We have reports of “very ambitious proposals” and “almost trebling his wages,” but the precise terms (salary, bonuses, contract length, release provisions) have not all been publicly verified.
How strongly Al-Hilal or other Saudi clubs will push in future windows
Interest can fluctuate. If United fail to qualify for European competition, or if Fernandes desires a new challenge (or financial security), pressure may build.
How long Fernandes can maintain his current level
At 30, players start thinking about their legacy, their physical condition, how much time is left at top competition level. If form or fitness declines, the calculus might change.
Manchester United’s competitive future
If United improve (or worsen), that could sway decisions. If they return to consistent Champions League football, that supports his staying; if they struggle, that makes alternative offers more appealing.
—
Conclusion
In sum, Bruno Fernandes has clearly addressed the rumours linking him to the Saudi Pro League and made the decision (for now) to stay at Manchester United. His decision appears to stem from a mix of professional goals (playing at the highest level, participating in major European competitions), his personal life and family input, and the stance of United and his manager. He rejected a large offer from Al-Hilal, but has not ruled out a move entirely in the future; the “door is not closed.”
For now, his message is consistent: he wants to stay, help Manchester United rebuild, and keep competing at the level he feels he’s capable of. Any future move to Saudi would depend on changing circumstances — both personally and in terms of his club’s direction.
Leave a Reply