The Portugal international was heavily linked with a lucrative move to the Saudi Pro League before the new season began, with reports suggesting he rejected a significant offer from Al-Hilal (reportedly around £100m for the transfer and a massive wage increase).

Speaking to Portuguese outlet Mais Futebol (as relayed by various sources), Fernandes revealed the stance taken by certain club directors:

“The club wanted me to go [in the summer], I have that in my head. I told the directors this, but I think they didn’t have the courage to make that decision.”

Fernandes ultimately decided to stay, citing his strong love for the club, family reasons, and a crucial conversation with the manager, Ruben Amorim.

However, the perceived willingness of the club’s leadership to let him go left the midfielder feeling deeply hurt and unappreciated:

“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.”

He also took aim at what he perceives as a lack of commitment from some of his teammates:

“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.”

Club’s Stance

It is understood that Manchester United sources have since reiterated that the leadership was clear throughout the summer that Fernandes was a fundamental component of the team’s future plans, suggesting they do not fully agree with the captain’s interpretation of events.

Fernandes is under contract at Old Trafford until 2027, with an option for a further year. The controversy centers on the significant financial temptation of the Saudi offer versus the player’s enduring loyalty to the club he captains.

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