Bruno Fernandes claims Manchester United wanted to sell him during the summer transfer window amid interest from Saudi Arabia.
The Red Devils captain told Portuguese media that United wanted him to leave before the season but ‘didn’t have the courage to make that decision’.
In an interview with Canal 11, Fernandes revealed that a conversation with head coach Ruben Amorim was one of the factors behind him staying at the club, while he also shared strong criticism of some of his Old Trafford teammates.
The 31-year-old said some United players ‘don’t value and defend the club as much’, adding that the situation at the club makes him ‘sad’.
Bruno Fernandes Slams Man Utd Teammates
bruno fernandes
Fernandes, as quoted by MaisFutebol, revealed he was ‘hurt’ by Manchester United’s openness to selling him this summer and described himself as a player the club ‘have nothing to criticise about’:
“But there comes a point where, for them, money is more important than anything. The club wanted me to go, I have that in my head. I told the directors this, but I think they didn’t have the courage to make that decision.
“I decided to stay, also because of family reasons, but because I genuinely like the club. The conversation with the manager also made me stay.
“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. 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.”
Fernandes was the subject of interest from Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal during the summer and revealed the Middle East club wanted him to join in time for the Club World Cup.
The 31-year-old claimed the difference between the salary he was offered by Al-Hilal and his current one at Man United was ‘huge’, but he ultimately decided to turn down the proposal.
Fernandes also revealed it was not the first time he had received an approach from Al-Hilal, having spoken with former manager Jorge Jesus over a potential move in 2023.
This is a breaking story. More to follow.