Bruno Fernandes Rejects Saudi Millions to Stay at Manchester United

Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has confirmed he turned down a massive offer from Saudi Arabian club Al Hilal to remain at Old Trafford, stating his commitment to competing “at the highest level.”

Speaking to the media from Portugal’s camp ahead of Wednesday’s Nations League semifinal against Germany, Fernandes acknowledged he received an “exciting offer” from Al Hilal, reportedly worth up to £100 million. However, the 30-year-old midfielder emphasized that his passion for elite football and loyalty to Manchester United ultimately guided his decision.

“The president of Al Hilal called me and asked me if I wanted to move there,” Fernandes revealed. “They waited for me to think about my future.” While tempted by the opportunity, especially with other Portuguese stars like Cristiano Ronaldo and Ruben Neves already in the Saudi league, Fernandes said the move didn’t align with his goals.

“I want to play at the highest possible level,” he stated. “I want to play major competitions. I know I still can and I want to be happy doing the thing I love the most.”

Fernandes disclosed that new United manager Ruben Amorim also played a crucial role in convincing him to stay. “I talked to the gaffer and he asked me not to go,” he said. “Man United said they didn’t want to sell me. They said if I wanted to go, I could but they didn’t need the money.”

The decision comes after a difficult season for United, who finished 15th in the Premier League and lost the Europa League final to Tottenham. Despite the team’s struggles, Fernandes stood out with an impressive 19 goals and 19 assists across all competitions.

Former United captain Gary Neville called Fernandes’ choice “significant,” noting the midfielder’s continued importance to the club. “To turn that money down at a point where Manchester United are at their lowest ebb… I think it says a lot about him as a person,” said Neville. “The club needs people who are going to run through a brick wall for them.”

With United expected to overhaul the squad this summer, Fernandes remains central to Amorim’s plans. The club has already signed Brazil forward Matheus Cunha from Wolves and is eyeing Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo. Departures may include Jadon Sancho, Marcus Rashford, Antony, and Alejandro Garnacho.

Since joining from Sporting Lisbon in 2020, Fernandes has made 290 appearances and scored 98 goals. His decision to stay reflects both his enduring belief in United and a desire to help rebuild from one of the club’s lowest points in recent memory.