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Bruno Fernandes reveals why he did not leave Manchester United amidst Saudi links

Originally posted on We All Follow United
By Rohit Sarkar | Last updated Oct 12, 2025 11:12 AM ET

Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes reveals that the Saudi transfer was never on his mind

Manchester United entered the summer of 2025 surrounded by speculation, and Bruno Fernandes stood at the centre of it all. As captain, he carried both the burden of leadership and the curiosity of fans who wondered if he might join the growing list of stars moving to Saudi Arabia.

The Portuguese midfielder received tempting options. Al Hilal offered a £100 million transfer fee to Manchester United and a contract worth £200 million to Fernandes. Al Ittihad showed interest too. Yet, despite those massive numbers, Fernandes stood firm. The 31-year-old made it clear that he wanted to stay, and the club agreed.

Fernandes’s choice showed more than attachment; it showed intent. People close to him said he chose to remain in Europe and play at the top level instead of chasing money. His current contract lasts until 2027, with an option for another year.

That indicates he does not plan to leave United’s rebuild. He still targets a top-five Premier League finish and Champions League qualification. The United captain recently spoke about the Saudi links and stated that he wanted to stay at Old Trafford, and that a Saudi transfer was never on his mind.

“I didn’t close the door to move to Saudi Arabia because of the World Cup — that was never on my mind. I just wanted to stay at the club, and the club wanted me to stay. That’s all”.

Nani believes Bruno Fernandes is not to blame for his lack of trophies at Manchester United. He says leadership without trophies does not erase his influence. Gary Neville has changed his view on Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes, and now respects the midfielder’s drive and visible frustration when standards drop.

Amorim’s system and the Fernandes dilemma

Fernandes remains Manchester United’s creative core. He is their most effective playmaker since joining the club.

Yet, under Ruben Amorim this season, the system restricts that spark. Amorim’s 3–4–3 setup pushes Fernandes deeper, forcing him to defend more instead of threading passes and creating danger closer to goal. This approach helps control possession but reduces the attacking sharpness that defines him as an attacking midfielder. The 31-year-old enjoys adapting, but he can use his strengths further forward.

Amorim can address this by adjusting the system slightly. The Portuguese manager can allow Fernandes to move between the lines and connect directly with the striker Benjamin Sesko. If United pair him with a disciplined defensive midfielder, it can free him from heavy defensive work.

That change would allow him to focus on creating chances. If Amorim keeps using a deeper playmaker, he can rotate Fernandes with someone like Kobbie Mainoo, who fits that role better. Fernandes must influence games in the final third, where his vision decides matches. If the club find that balance, it will bring the best out of both captain and manager. It will also help Manchester United regain their attacking rhythm.

This article first appeared on We All Follow United and was syndicated with permission.

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