Bruno Fernandes has reportedly told his Manchester United teammates that he intends to stay at Old Trafford this summer, putting an end to months of speculation about a potential exit. The club captain, who was heavily linked with a move to Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal last year, has decided to remain with the Red Devils after discussions with his family.
Fernandes Commits to United After Family Talks
According to talkSPORT, Fernandes has not held formal talks with the club regarding his future ahead of the World Cup, but he has made his intentions clear to those in his inner circle. The Portugal international gave serious consideration to a £100 million move to Al-Hilal in 2024, with his agent Miguel Pinho holding discussions with the Middle Eastern club. However, Manchester United did not rule out his departure, but Fernandes ultimately decided against the transfer following conversations with his family.
Record-Breaking Season at Old Trafford
The 31-year-old went on to enjoy the finest season of his United career, registering 21 assists in the Premier League last term. That tally surpassed the all-time single-season record previously held by Kevin de Bruyne and Thierry Henry. Fernandes joined United from Sporting in 2019 and has since made 327 appearances, scoring 107 goals.
Wife's Influence Key to Decision
Fernandes revealed in April that his wife persuaded him to stay. Speaking on the Wayne Rooney Show on BBC Sport, he said: "I stayed because I thought I still had something that I can give back to the club. Obviously the Saudi situation, with the money... there was a lot. The good thing I have in my family is that my wife is pretty down to earth like me. We're very aware that we don't want to be the richest person in the world. We just want to be the ones that have achieved the dreams they had and live a good life with their kids and trying to be as successful as possible. The words of my wife were like, 'have you achieved your dreams? Have you achieved everything you wanted?' And that small thing she said made me understand that she's on the same page as me. Let's keep trying and see where this takes me."
World Cup Campaign Underway
Fernandes marked his World Cup campaign with his first goal contribution on Tuesday, setting up Cristiano Ronaldo's second goal in a commanding 5-0 victory over Uzbekistan.
