Bruno Fernandes Confirms He Considered Leaving Manchester United Last Summer | OneFootball

Bruno Fernandes: The Leader Manchester United Cannot Afford to Lose

Fernandes’ Commitment Amid Uncertain Times

Bruno Fernandes has reaffirmed his commitment to Manchester United, revealing he had an opportunity to leave last summer but chose to remain at Old Trafford. Speaking after his hat-trick heroics against Real Sociedad, which secured United’s place in the Europa League quarter-finals, the captain shed light on the discussions he held with the club.

“I sat with the club because I had an offer to leave,” Fernandes admitted. “We talked about the possibility of me leaving the club or staying. They said what they wanted from me. I just asked if they still see me as part of the future of the club or not. I spoke at the time with (Erik) Ten Hag also.”

Despite the turmoil surrounding United’s season, Fernandes remains a crucial figure in the squad. With 15 goals this season, he is the only player in the squad to have reached double figures. His departure would have been a catastrophe for a side languishing in 14th place, teetering on the brink of their worst domestic campaign since 1973-74.

Photo: IMAGO

Leadership Under Scrutiny

United’s struggles have only intensified since Ten Hag was dismissed in October, with Ruben Amorim stepping in to little avail. The Portuguese manager has yet to turn around the club’s fortunes, leaving Fernandes in an unenviable position as the team’s leader.

Criticism has come from all angles, including former captain Roy Keane, who questioned Fernandes’ mentality. “Talent is not enough,” Keane asserted. “He is not a fighter.” Amorim also weighed in, suggesting his captain needs to “trust” his team-mates more.

Fernandes, however, remains undeterred. “Roy Keane was an amazing captain for the club, one of the best as everyone says,” he said. “I didn’t have the chance to see much from him, only the last few years, but he was a great player that won everything for the club. He’s massively respected from everyone and has all my respect.”

The Portuguese midfielder has never shied away from responsibility and has been one of the few constants in a tumultuous season for United. His leadership may be different from Keane’s, but his impact on the pitch is undeniable.

Europa League: A Lifeline for United

With domestic form in disarray, the Europa League presents Manchester United with a chance to salvage their season and earn a route back into the Champions League. Fernandes, whose contract runs until 2027, is under no illusions about what is required.

“We can’t relax at this club. We need to prove ourselves every day in training and every day that we have a game,” he insisted. “I’m in the same boat as my team-mates. It doesn’t matter how much you do, how much you score, how much you assist… It’s about the team.”

Fernandes’ determination to fight for trophies aligns with United’s aspirations, but whether the club can match his ambition remains a pressing question.

Photo IMAGO

Ratcliffe’s Assessment and Squad Uncertainty

Sir Jim Ratcliffe has wasted no time in assessing the squad he inherited, publicly questioning the quality and wages of several high-profile players. “Some players are not good enough,” Ratcliffe said, directly referencing Casemiro, Rasmus Højlund, André Onana, Antony, and Jadon Sancho.

Fernandes responded diplomatically: “I don’t think any player likes to hear criticism or things that are talked about to you, that you’re not good enough or you’re overpaid or whatever. But everyone has their own contract. The club agrees to the contracts and it’s about proving that you can be important for the club.”

It remains to be seen how Ratcliffe’s vision aligns with the squad’s current personnel. What is certain, however, is that Fernandes is irreplaceable. If Manchester United are to rebuild successfully, it will be around their captain.