Bruno Fernandes was one of the standout names in the 2025 summer transfer window after Saudi giants Al Hilal reportedly offered him a $227 million contract. Now with the Portugal national team, the Manchester United captain has broken his silence, addressing the offer and the growing interest in his future.
Manchester United faced growing uncertainty leading up to the Europa League final as rumors swirled about Al Hilal’s record-breaking proposal for Fernandes. The midfielder struggled during the final, which United lost, and speculation around a possible departure intensified after his post-match comments.
“I’m always honest. If Manchester United think they can sell me and make money, then let them do it. That’s football. I’ve always said I’ll be here until the club tells me to leave,” Fernandes said. His words raised alarms at Old Trafford and opened the door for Al Hilal to make a move.
Following Neymar’s exit and after missing out on Mohamed Salah, Al Hilal was in search of a marquee name ahead of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup. Their offer to Fernandes—reportedly worth €200 million (around $227 million)—would have placed him among the highest-paid players in the world. Ultimately, the Portuguese star declined the offer.
According to Fabrizio Romano, Fernandes rejected the deal primarily because he wants to continue competing at the highest level in Europe. Even though United failed to qualify for European competition next season, Fernandes is committed to leading the club through its rebuilding phase while wearing the captain’s armband.
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Bruno addresses the rumors
In recent weeks, Fernandes’ agent traveled to Saudi Arabia to meet with Al Hilal representatives and evaluate the offer. Now on international duty with Portugal, Fernandes confirmed his final decision. Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday, he offered some insight into how the process unfolded:
“There was an opportunity with Al-Hilal. The president called me and asked if I wanted to go. They were waiting for me to answer. I spoke to Ruben Amorim. He asked me not to go. Manchester United didn’t want to sell me. And they don’t need the money. But if I had wanted to leave, they would have made it happen.”
Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim has repeatedly expressed how vital Fernandes is to his project and emphasized his desire to keep him at the club. Fernandes now confirms that Amorim’s influence played a key role in his decision to stay—leaving Al Hilal still in search of a world-class face to lead their squad.
