Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has delivered a stunning revelation, claiming the club's leadership attempted to push him out the door during the summer transfer window following a colossal offer from Saudi Arabia.
The Lucrative Offer That Tested Loyalty
In a candid interview with Portuguese outlet Canal 11, Fernandes confirmed serious interest from Saudi Pro League giants Al-Hilal. The midfielder was presented with a life-changing financial package, reported to be worth around £700,000 per week. Over a proposed three-year contract, this deal could have seen Fernandes earn close to £200 million.
For Manchester United, agreeing to sell their skipper would have meant a significant windfall, with a transfer fee in the region of £100 million discussed. Fernandes has now suggested the club's executives were eager to accept that sum.
"The Club Wanted Me to Go" - A Captain's Heartache
The 30-year-old playmaker expressed deep personal hurt over the situation, stating he felt the club's hierarchy valued the financial gain over his continued service. "But there comes a point where, for them, money is more important than anything," Fernandes said. "The club wanted me to go, I have that in my head."
He revealed he directly confronted the directors about their stance, believing they "didn't have the courage" to formally make the decision to sell him. Despite the enormous personal financial incentive, Fernandes insisted his choice was never guided by money alone, citing his affection for United and conversations with manager Erik ten Hag as key reasons for staying.
Contrasting Commitments at Old Trafford
What appears to cut deepest for Fernandes is the contrast between his own unwavering commitment and the perceived attitude of others within the squad. "It hurts me a lot," he admitted. "More than hurting, it makes me sad because I'm a player they have nothing to criticise about. I'm always available, I always play, good or bad. I give my all."
He concluded with a pointed remark that underscores his frustration: "Then you see things around you, players who don't value the club as much and don't defend the club as much... that makes you sad." This bombshell interview sheds stark light on the internal tensions and commercial pressures at one of the world's biggest football clubs, revealing a rift between a loyal captain and the board that appointed him.
