Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has denied rumors that his decision to remain at Old Trafford was influenced by next year’s World Cup. Despite rumors of a big-money move to Saudi Arabia, the midfielder insists he is not considering leaving his current club.
There has been speculation about possible offers from Al Hilal and Al Ittihad, but the Portugal international is committed to spending at least another season at Old Trafford. Fernandes, 31, still has two years left on his contract with an option for a further year and remains an important player for Ruben Amorim.
Earlier this year, Fernandes revealed that he had been approached by Al Hilal’s chairman about a deal. The Saudi team are reportedly ready to offer United a staggering £300m package, with a £100m deal for the midfielder and a £200m deal for the midfielder.
Despite a tough season, including two missed penalties, the former Sporting star has been one of the few bright spots in a disappointing 2024-25 season at Old Trafford. He has scored two goals so far this season.
Ahead of Portugal’s World Cup qualifier against Ireland, Fernandes spoke about speculation about his future. His reaction to staying at United was frank.
“I have not closed the door on a move to Saudi Arabia for the World Cup,” he declared. “It never crossed my mind. I wanted to stay at Manchester United and the club wanted me to stay. That’s all that matters.”
Fernandes denied speculation about his future at United, insisting he is happy with his current situation and there have been no discussions about him potentially leaving next summer.
“That’s an impossible scenario to imagine, because it hasn’t been discussed with me,” he added. “When we talked about it, I spoke up in the press conference before the Nations League game.
“I like to enjoy the moment and the most important thing for me right now is to represent the national team, because it’s a source of great pride to be able to play tomorrow (Saturday). And I still don’t know whether I’ll play or not, let alone whether I’ll leave Manchester United within a year.
“I’m happy where I am. Otherwise I wouldn’t have stayed here. But it doesn’t affect me.”
The Portugal star is set to feature in Portugal’s World Cup qualifier against Ireland on Saturday night. The Nations League champions currently have a perfect record in Group F, with wins over Armenia and Hungary aiming to qualify for next summer’s North American World Cup.
“Even though I know I want to get to the World Cup as soon as possible, I have to take it game by game,” the 31-year-old told Channel 11. “Our main goal is to win every match and we know that the World Cup dream will always be there, so we are focused on that.”
“Ever since I was little, I have dreamed of winning the World Cup. It’s not just my dream, it’s the dream of all Portuguese people. First, I will do everything to qualify for the World Cup, and then I will do everything to make that dream come true.”
