Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes says it hurt to realise the club wanted him to leave when Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal proposed a huge offer during the summer transfer window.
The 31-year-old Portugal international turned down a move to the Saudi Pro League to stay at Old Trafford, despite Al-Hilal reportedly prepared to offer around £100 million and wages of up to £700,000 per week.
Fernandes is contracted to Manchester United until 2027, with the option of a further year.
Speaking to Canal 11, a channel owned by the Portuguese Football Federation, Fernandes says the situation made him sad rather than angry.
He says he could have left during the transfer window and earned significantly more money, but chose not to go, not only for family reasons but because of his genuine love for the club.
Fernandes, who joined United in January 2020 from Sporting for £47 million, has made 307 appearances for the club, scoring 103 goals and providing 93 assists, and remains one of United’s key players.
This season, he has scored five Premier League goals and registered seven assists.
BBC Sport reports that, according to sources, the interview was conducted several weeks ago.
They say the club insists there is no desire to sell Fernandes and that he remains central to United’s long-term plans.
Source: BBC Sports
