Bruno Fernandes reveals Manchester United tried to sell him, but coach Ruben Amorim convinced him to stay at Old Trafford

Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has revealed that the Premier League club sought to sell him during the summer transfer window, according to statements made to Portuguese media on Monday.

Also read: Nigeria and Tunisia Set to Dominate AFCON 2025 Group C

The 31-year-old midfielder said manager Ruben Amorim’s insistence on keeping him at Old Trafford ultimately persuaded him to remain with the club.

Fernandes said the club’s hierarchy had prioritised financial considerations over his long-term commitment.

“My passion and empathy for the club were the same, but there comes a point where money becomes more important to them than you,” Fernandes said.

The midfielder explained that while United had communicated their willingness to let him leave, the coach’s backing made the club hesitate.

“The club wanted me to leave. I said it to the directors, and I think they didn’t dare to make that decision because the coach wanted me,” he said.

Fernandes, who has scored 103 goals in 307 appearances since joining Manchester United in 2020, admitted feeling disappointed by the club’s approach.

“The feeling I got from the club was, ‘if you leave, it’s not so bad for us’. That hurt me a little,” he added.

The Portuguese playmaker also confirmed that he had considered a move to Saudi Arabia, following the path of compatriot Cristiano Ronaldo, who joined the Saudi Pro League in 2023 after leaving Manchester United.

Also read: Nigeria and Tunisia Set to Dominate AFCON 2025 Group C

Fernandes’ remarks offer a rare glimpse into the internal dynamics at Old Trafford during the recent transfer period, highlighting the impact of managerial support on player decisions.