Credit: Imago

Tom Griffin

Fri 10 October 2025 20:25, UK

Bruno Fernandes has been heavily linked with a move to Saudi Arabia, and the Man United captain has now responded to the latest rumours.

Fernandes rejected a move to Al Hilal in the summer transfer window, and since then, the 31-year-old has continued as normal at Man United.

The Portuguese international has started in each of their seven Premier League games, with Ruben Amorim’s men moving up to 10th position after Man United beat Sunderland 2-0 last time out.

Yet, despite outlining his commitment to the club, Football Insider understands that United could cash in on Fernandes if an offer of £100million comes in, and that is why supporters will be keen to hear their captain respond.

Bruno Fernandes explains why he stayed at Man United

While Saudi clubs continue to show an interest in Fernandes, he has now explained why he decided to stay at Old Trafford this summer.

🚨 Bruno Fernandes: “I didn’t close the door to move to Saudi because of the World Cup — that was never on my mind”.

“I just wanted to stay at the club, and the club wanted me to stay. That’s all”. pic.twitter.com/pzMdyBnXzP

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) October 10, 2025

As per Fabrizio Romano on X, the midfield metronome said: “I didn’t close the door to move to Saudi because of the World Cup — that was never on my mind. I just wanted to stay at the club, and the club wanted me to stay. That’s all”.

Fernandes confirmed that being selected for the 2026 World Cup squad wasn’t the main motivation behind remaining at United, and instead, reaffirmed how much the club wanted him to stay.

Players such as Ruben Neves have already shown how moving to Saudi Arabia doesn’t always impact their chances of featuring for their nation, with the former Wolves man remaining an important player for Portugal.

However, with Fernandes’ contract expiring in June 2027, United either need to renew terms or consider selling him in the coming windows.

Fernandes’ underlying numbers in 2025/26

After committing himself to the club, Fernandes has seen his best attributes shackled by Amorim’s system.

The under-pressure manager deploys him as one of two deep-lying midfielders, relying on his creativity from deep instead of playing him closer to goal.

Fernandes has been blasted for some of his defensive performances this term, with the midfielder failing to track runners or stay switched on.

The former Sporting Lisbon star is better used as a number 10, as his strength is arriving late in the box, creating chances and finishing them.

Currently, Fernandes has been forced into a deeper role by new signings Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha, as well as Mason Mount.

As a result, his underlying numbers have suffered, with Fernandes only creating one big chance across his opening seven Premier League games.