‘It Hurt Me’: Bruno Fernandes Opens Up on Al-Hilal Interest

Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has revealed he felt hurt by the club’s stance after Saudi Arabian giants Al-Hilal made a massive offer for him during the summer transfer window.

The 31-year-old Portugal international turned down a move to the Saudi Pro League, despite reports that Al-Hilal were ready to pay around £100 million in transfer fees and offer weekly wages of up to £700,000. Fernandes chose to remain at Old Trafford, where he remains under contract until 2027, with an option for an extra year.

‘It Made Me Sad’ – Fernandes Opens Up

Speaking to Canal 11, a channel owned by the Portuguese Football Federation, Fernandes said he sensed the club would not have stood in his way had he opted to leave.

“From the club, I felt it was, ‘If you go, it’s not so bad for us.’ It hurt me a bit,” Fernandes said.
“More than hurting me, it made me sad. I’m always available, I always give my best.”

The midfielder admitted he could have left and earned significantly more money, and even stood a better chance of winning trophies this season. However, he insisted his decision to stay was driven by love for the club and family considerations.

Loyalty Over Money

“I genuinely love the club,” Fernandes said. “I could have left in this transfer window, but I decided not to go.”

Fernandes joined United from Sporting Lisbon in January 2020 for £47 million and has since become a key figure at the club. He has made 307 appearances, scoring 103 goals and registering 93 assists.

This season, he has contributed five goals and seven assists in the Premier League, including a stunning free-kick and an assist in Monday’s thrilling 4-4 draw with Bournemouth.

Future Plans Still on Hold

In June, Fernandes said he rejected Al-Hilal’s offer because he wanted to continue playing at the highest level. He also credited United manager Ruben Amorim for encouraging him to stay.

However, the midfielder claimed the club’s hierarchy would have allowed him to leave if he had pushed for the move. “The manager wanted me, but if I had said I wanted to go, the club would have let me,” he said.

Fernandes has previously stated he will not discuss his future until after next year’s World Cup.

United Respond

Sources close to Manchester United have since played down Fernandes’ comments, saying the interview was recorded several weeks ago. The club insists it has no intention of selling the captain and views him as central to its long-term plans.