Bruno Fernandes came close to leaving Old Trafford last summer but has been one of Manchester United’s most impressive players this season.
Michael Carrick is confident Bruno Fernandes will stay at Manchester United (Image: Getty Images)
Michael Carrick believes Bruno Fernandes will remain a Manchester United player next season, despite speculation that the attacking midfielder could leave Old Trafford in the summer.
Fernandes has had a fantastic 2025-26 campaign, breaking the Premier League assists record in Sunday’s 3-0 win over Brighton. The 31-year-old also ended the season in style with a goal as Carrick celebrated his first start as United’s permanent head coach with a convincing victory.
After receiving interest from Saudi Arabia last summer, elite clubs could be looking to sign Fernandes in the next transfer window, given he only has 12 months left on his contract.
But when asked about Fernandes after the game, Carrick didn’t sound like a manager resigned to losing his talisman.
read more: Manchester United star Bruno Fernandes breaks Premier League assist recordread more: Amount earned by each Premier League team this season with final rankings confirmed
“He’s been a big influence for us, he’s our captain and he’s led by example in many ways,” Carrick said of the Portugal international.
Asked if he was optimistic Fernandes would stay, Carrick added:
“We love what he’s been doing and he loves being here, I think you can tell.
“He wanted to stay (on the pitch). He wants to stay in every game because he enjoys his football. That’s great.”
Fernandes was influential under Carrick (Image: OLI SCARFF/AFP via Getty Images)
Fernandes has one year left on his contract, but Manchester United have the option to extend it by a further 12 months. Fernandes’ contract also has a £57m release clause, which could theoretically help any suitors interested this summer. If the club were to trigger it, United would be powerless to resist losing their talismanic playmaker.
Champions League football could be a big selling point if Fernandes chooses to remain at Old Trafford. Carrick has now agreed a two-year deal to continue as the club’s head coach, with his sights set on further progress next season.
“I’m happy to be here for a long time and we need to keep progressing,” he said. “We have work to do. We have to keep improving. We want to be a little bit better, but to do it from this place is very encouraging.
“The players have to give a lot of credit to the consistent play they’ve had, the way they’ve won games in different ways, and the strength of the players. I think it’s very important for us to appreciate that.”
“That’s what gives me encouragement and excitement and the realization that we now have a really strong foundation to build on.”
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