Bruno Fernandes’ stance on Man Utd future after Saudi takeover update | Football | Sport
Bruno Fernandes has no intention of leaving Manchester United to play in Saudi Arabia. The Red Devils’ captain rejected tempting offers from clubs such as Al-Hilal and Al-Ittihad in the summer, with his heart firmly set on remaining a pivotal figure in Ruben Amorim‘s Old Trafford overhaul.
Despite recent rumours suggesting the 31-year-old may seek a move away from United after next summer’s World Cup, insiders close to Fernandes have told BBC Sport that this is not the case. Fernandes’ current contract extends until 2027, with an option for an additional year. In terms of his future, it’s also reported that Fernandes would only consider playing for teams in the major European leagues, making United an ideal match at present – particularly if they can reverse their fortunes and secure Champions League football for the 2026/27 season.
However, achieving this looks a tall order at the moment. Since taking over from Erik ten Hag last November, Amorim has found it difficult to change United’s trajectory, managing only a 15th-place finish in the Premier League last season.
Currently, United are 10th in the league table with three victories, three defeats and one draw from their first seven matches. This, coupled with a humiliating Carabao Cup exit at the hands of League Two’s Grimsby Town in August, explains why Fernandes has been linked with a move away from the north west.
Despite being a key player for Amorim and regularly featuring in the starting line-up, Fernandes might be considering whether a move away would truly be beneficial.
In a surprising twist, Turki Al-Sheikh has hinted at a potential change in Manchester United‘s ownership. The Glazer Family currently have the power to sell their entire stake in the club due to the activation of ‘drag along’ rights, which protect majority owners from being held ransom by minority stakeholders.
Although the Glazers could force Sir Jim Ratcliffe to sell his stake, there has been little talk of such a scenario until Wednesday evening. In an unexpected post on X, Saudi businessman Al-Sheikh suggested that the club might soon be under new management.
He penned: “The best news I heard today is that Manchester United is now in an advanced stage of completing a deal to sell to a new investor. I hope he’s better than the previous owners.”
This revelation came just hours after an uncommon interview with Ratcliffe was released, where the INEOS chief gave no hint of any plans to give up control of the club.
