Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has disclosed that the club was willing to sell him to a club in Saudi Pro League due to financial reasons, but the Portuguese midfielder preferred loyalty to money and opted to remain in Old Trafford.
In an interview with Canal 11, Fernandes acknowledged the possibility of leaving in the summer transfer window as a reality, and Saudi megachampion Al-Hilal had shown great interest in acquiring him. But, the United captain clarified that he had never even thought over the possibility of forcing an exit.
Fernandes clarified that, in contrast to most players who seek transfers demanding not to train, or that they seek a transfer because of a better pay, he decided to honor his relationship with Manchester United. He stressed that his attachment to the club at the emotional level was an ultimate determinant in his choice.
This was also a bold assertion by the midfielder who opined that the management at United saw his exit as a financial gain. Fernandes states that the club was willing to have him go, as it was more about the financial interest than about sporting interests but it was reluctant to issue the final decision itself.
Nevertheless, Fernandes was a stubborn person. He confessed that it was partly a personal and family issue that guided him to do it, however, his true love to the club and the fans were more significant to make him remain at Old Trafford. Another important reason that led to his decision was his talk with the manager Ruben Amorim who is also quoted saying that he should not worry because he was important to the future of the team.
The increasing attraction of the Saudi Pro League is emphasized by the interest of Al-Hilal, which has been receiving high-priced bids to take elite European players. Fernandes admitted that he might have earned much more but it was not money that was the driving power in his activity.
Fernandes has cemented his position as a leader in the squad and as a representation of devotion in the wake of transition at Manchester United by remaining. His ruling sends a powerful message when there is growing rarity of loyalty in football.
