Bruno Fernandes has rallied behind Portugal teammate Rafael Leao after the forward was sent off during a World Cup warm-up match against Chile. The Manchester United captain sent a one-word message of support to Leao, who has been linked with a summer transfer to Old Trafford.
Incident During Portugal vs Chile
Leao, an AC Milan forward reportedly unsettled at the Serie A club, was dismissed after throwing a punch at an opponent. The incident began when Leao intervened in a confrontation between Joao Cancelo and Chile's Felipe Faundez. He then became involved with Ivan Roman, pushing him repeatedly before landing a blow to his face. Following a VAR review, both Leao and Roman were shown red cards.
Fernandes was close to the flashpoint and quickly showed his support for his international colleague. Leao later took to Instagram to justify his actions, stating: 'Regarding my expulsion, I simply wanted to protect my colleague, never with the intention of hurting the opponent! Thank you to all the Portuguese who came to Jamor, amazing atmosphere, we're still together.'
Fernandes' Response
Fernandes responded to Leao's post with a succinct message: 'Together.' The 31-year-old midfielder's show of solidarity underscores the strong bond within the Portugal squad ahead of the World Cup.
Transfer Speculation
Leao is expected to leave AC Milan this summer, with Galatasaray and Fenerbahce reportedly interested. Manchester United and Arsenal have also been linked with the 26-year-old. Leao has openly expressed a desire to play in the Premier League, telling Portuguese outlet Sport TV: 'I need a new challenge. I already won two trophies in Italy and have been there for a while. The league is evolving, but for my style of football, I think the Premier League or La Liga would make more of my talent.'
He added: 'If a Premier League opportunity were to come along, I would be very happy. I think that I can put my talent up against the players there, who are of a very high level. Playing in that kind of a league really gets the best out of a player.'
AC Milan are reportedly prepared to accept £43 million for the attacker, who has two years remaining on his contract.
