I Rejected Saudi Offer to Chase My Manchester United Dreams – Fernandes

Manchester United captain, Bruno Fernandes, has disclosed that he turned down a lucrative offer from Saudi Arabia to continue pursuing his ambitions with the Red Devils.

Fernandes is set to make his 300th appearance for United in Saturday’s Premier League clash against Brighton at Old Trafford.

Despite enduring challenging seasons — including United’s 15th-place finish last term, their lowest league standing since 1973–74, and a Europa League final defeat to Tottenham — the Portuguese midfielder chose loyalty over an easy exit.

Reports indicated that Al-Hilal had shown interest in signing him during the summer transfer window, but Fernandes declined, insisting he had “unfinished business” with the 20-time English champions, who last lifted the Premier League title in 2013.

Speaking about the decision, Fernandes said:

> “Whenever an offer comes, I always discuss it with my wife. The first thing she asked was, ‘Have you achieved everything you wanted at the club?’ And she knows I haven’t.”

Known for his fiery on-field demeanor, Fernandes has occasionally faced criticism for his emotional reactions during games. However, United manager Ruben Amorim has backed his captain’s passion, describing it as part of his relentless drive to win both the Premier League and the Champions League.

Fernandes also revealed that both Amorim and the club’s hierarchy reassured him of his key role in their long-term project.

> “The manager told me I was still part of the plan and the club said the same. If they had told me they wanted to cash in or move in another direction, I would have respected that and looked for the best option for my family. But that wasn’t the case — I still believe I can help the club achieve its goals.”

The 31-year-old, whose contract runs until 2027 with an option for an extra year, stated that he has no plans to discuss his future until after next year’s World Cup.

> “I feel happy here and I still want to achieve my dreams. I’ve seen rumours that I already have an agreement to leave next season — but if such an agreement exists, it wasn’t made with me. My agent knows how I operate — I won’t talk to anyone until after the World Cup.”