Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has revealed that the club was willing to let him leave Old Trafford during the last summer transfer window.
The Portuguese midfielder was strongly linked with a big-money move to Saudi Arabia ahead of the new season, sparking widespread speculation about his future at the Premier League club.
Despite the interest, Fernandes chose to remain at Manchester United, explaining that his decision was influenced by his affection for the club, his family situation, and conversations with the manager.
Reflecting on the situation, the midfielder admitted he sensed a lack of resistance from the club regarding his potential departure.
“The club wanted me to go [in the summer], I have that in my head,” Fernandes said as reported by Mais Futebol.
“I told the directors this, but I think they didn’t have the courage to make that decision.
“I decided to stay, also because of family reasons, but because I genuinely like the club. The conversation with the manager also made me stay.
“But, from the club’s side, I felt a bit like, ‘if you leave, it’s not so bad for us.
“It hurts me a lot. 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.
“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.”
Fernandes’ comments have sparked fresh debate among fans about Manchester United’s transfer strategy, loyalty to key players, and the direction of the club under its current leadership.
