Manchester United captain Fernandes says it “hurt” to realise the club was open to him leaving after Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal made a huge offer in the summer.
Fernandes, 31, rejected the move to Saudi Arabia even though it would have earned him much more money. He said the situation made him sad because he has always been available, given his best for the club and shown full commitment since joining United.
The Portugal international said he could have left, won trophies and earned far more elsewhere, but chose to stay because he loves Manchester United and wanted to continue playing at the highest level. Family reasons also played a part in his decision.
Fernandes joined United in 2020 and has been one of the club’s most important players, scoring over 100 goals and providing many assists. This season, he has continued to influence games with goals and key passes.
He said manager Ruben Amorim wanted him to stay, but believes the club would have allowed him to leave if he had pushed for the move. That feeling, Fernandes admitted, hurt him.
However, sources close to Manchester United insist Fernandes is not for sale and remains central to the club’s future plans. He is under contract until 2027, with the option of an extra year, and has said he will not discuss his future until after next year’s World Cup.
