‘I wanted to stay at Manchester United’ – Fernandes denies Saudi Pro League desires

Bruno Fernandes insists his decision to reject a move to the Saudi Pro League was due to his desire to stay at Manchester United and had nothing to do with the Portugal national team.

The Red Devils captain attracted interest from Al-Hilal in the recent transfer window, with the Saudi Arabian side reportedly willing to pay £100m for the midfielder.

Since his move to Old Trafford in January 2020, only Mohamed Salah (189) and Son Heung-min have contributed to more goals in the Premier League than Fernandes (115).

When Fernandes turned Al-Hilal down, reports suggested he had opted to stay in England in order to safeguard his place in Portugal’s squad ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

However, the midfielder says his choice was based purely on his desire to continue playing for United.

“I didn't close the door on moving to Saudi Arabia because of the World Cup,” Fernandes said ahead of Saturday's Group F qualifier against the Republic of Ireland.

“That was never in my mind. I wanted to stay at Manchester United, and the club wanted me to stay. That's all there is to it.”

United have endured another difficult start to the season, sitting 10th in the Premier League after seven games, while they were also knocked out of the EFL Cup in the second round by fourth tier Grimsby Town.

Fernandes has scored twice in those seven league matches, netting in United's wins against Burnley and Chelsea.