Bruno Fernandes has insisted that he is not thinking about leaving Manchester United despite reports floating the idea of a move to the Saudi Pro League. A number of the world’s best players have moved to the Gulf state over the last two years, with the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema and Neymar among the highest-profile names.
Fernandes has also been linked with a move to Saudi Arabia as of late, with more players expected to join the exodus in January. Earlier this month, it was reported that an unnamed Saudi club had opened talks with his agent to discuss the possibility of leaving Old Trafford in exchange for a lucrative contract.
Similar rumours have surfaced during the current international break, leading to Fernandes being quizzed on the topic ahead of Portugal’s match against Iceland. He was quick to shoot down the idea of leaving United, though, as he told Sport TV: “I’m focusing on the national team and United. I’m happy where I am.
“In the national team we had some very good times. At Manchester United we didn’t start the way we wanted. I don’t look at rumours. I don’t pay attention to them. Today, it’s very easy to spread rumours in the press. I prefer to concentrate on my goals.”
Fernandes has been one of United’s best signings in the last few years and was given the captain’s armband by Erik ten Hag prior to the start of this season. He also remains tied down to the Red Devils until the summer of 2026 after signing a new long-term deal at Old Trafford last year.
The 29-year-old has not been exempt from criticism over the last few months, though, with United’s on-pitch struggles leading to his abilities being questioned. Roy Keane was among those to call for him to be stripped of the armband in the wake of the derby defeat to Manchester City at the end of October.
“The first thing I would do is take the captaincy off him,” said Keane in his role as a pundit on Sky Sports. “I know it’s a big decision but Fernandes is not captain material. He’s a talented player, but what I saw today, he’s whinging, he’s moaning, he’s throwing his arms up in the air constantly.
“It really isn’t acceptable. When you’re talking about where do they make changes, board level, managers, I’d start with that because the manager is capable of doing that. Fernandes is a brilliant footballer but he’s the opposite to what you want in a captain.”
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