Bruno Fernandes and Jesse Lingard react to Cristiano Ronaldo message amid transfer links
Bruno Fernandes and Jesse Lingard have reacted to a significant update from Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo.
Manchester United captain Fernandes was once again a key player for the club last season, scoring 19 goals and registering 19 assists in all competitions.
Fernandes was linked with a big money move to Saudi Arabia earlier in the transfer window, but declined the offer to stay at Old Trafford, much to the relief of Ruben Amorim.
Lingard has struggled to reignite his career since leaving West Ham in 2021, with the former United player now playing for FC Seoul in South Korea.
Ronaldo update liked by former team mates
Ronaldo has confirmed he will stay put in Saudi Arabia after signing a new two-year contract with Al-Nassr.
Former team mates at United, Fernandes and Lingard, liked the post.
Ronaldo captioned his post with the message: “A new chapter begins. Same passion, same dream. Let’s make history together.”
The former Manchester United and Real Madrid star moved to Saudi Arabia in December 2022 from Old Trafford after he claiming he had “no respect” for then manager Erik ten Hag.
Ronaldo rejected a move away from the club to be able to play in the Club World Cup earlier this month.
Fernandes declines Saudi offer
Football Insider verdict
Ronaldo has proved he can still play at the top level in Saudi Arabia, but Fernandes clearly didn’t share his national captains view when turning down a deal from Al Hilal.
United have been relying on Fernandes to step up in important moments over the past few seasons, so losing him for manager Amorim would have been a big blow.
| Appearances | 195 |
| Goals | 62 |
| Assists | 51 |
Amorim has already come under some pressure in Manchester so starting next season, where facing Arsenal on the opening day is one of the toughest fixtures they could have got, on a positive note is crucial.
Fernandes has been given more support in attack next season with the arrival of Matheus Cunha and the expected arrival of Bryan Mbuemo.
It was often a frustration for Fernandes last season that he had little to aim for in the penalty area with Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee incapable of becoming United’s number nine.