The future of Bruno Fernandes at Manchester United remains a major talking point as reports suggest his teammates are increasingly worried that the club captain could leave when the season concludes. Sources at Old Trafford indicate that the Portuguese midfielder is growing weary of the ongoing “chaos” at the club, prompting speculation about a potential summer exit.
According to The Sun, Fernandes may be considering a new challenge after the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with clubs both in Europe and beyond monitoring his situation.
Teammates Concerned
Inside sources reveal that Manchester United players are concerned about Fernandes’ wellbeing and motivation. Despite his consistent performances and leadership, some teammates fear that he may be reaching a breaking point amid a turbulent environment.
“Some players feel Bruno is quite tired, and honestly, you can’t blame him,” a source explained. “He always gives 100 percent and has been one of the club’s best players since joining.”
Last summer, Fernandes was reportedly linked with a move to Saudi Pro League giants Al-Hilal, with an estimated fee around £100 million. While the move could have significantly increased his salary, Fernandes chose to remain at Old Trafford, citing personal and professional reasons.
Considering a Summer Move
Sources further suggest that Fernandes feels let down by Manchester United’s new ownership structure, while the recent sacking of Ruben Amorim had little positive impact on the dressing room atmosphere. Last month, Fernandes admitted that club management had contemplated letting him leave but did not act against Amorim’s wishes.
In an interview with Canal, the 31-year-old midfielder, whose current contract runs until 2027 with an option for an additional year, discussed his potential departure next summer.
“I decided not to go to Saudi Arabia, not only for family reasons but also because I genuinely like this club,” Fernandes said.
“From the club’s side, it sometimes feels like: ‘If you leave, it’s not a big deal for us.’ That’s a bit painful. More than painful, it’s sad. I am a player who is always available, always gives my best,” he added.
“The club wants me to leave. I told the board that I think they didn’t have the courage to make that decision because the coach wanted me to stay. But if I said I wanted to leave, even if the coach wanted me to stay, the club would let me go,” Fernandes explained.
Discussions Already Underway
Fernandes also revealed that he has already held discussions with senior club officials regarding his future.
“In October, I spoke with Al-Hilal; everyone knows that. There were also inquiries from Europe, but it never reached the point where an official offer was on the table,” Fernandes said.
“I spoke with Jason (Wilcox, Sporting Director) and Omar (Berrada, CEO) while we were in Malaysia, during that period when all this started. I told Omar: ‘This is what’s on the table, I know the club may see it from one perspective, but I see it differently. I just want to know your view.’”
Fernandes recounted the conversation with the club hierarchy:
“They said: ‘We won’t say no, but we want you to stay at the club. If you want to leave, we won’t refuse because clearly this is a significant amount of money.’”
He also shared the message he received from Amorim before the coach’s departure:
“We want to keep you while bringing in new players to strengthen the team. If we sign players and then lose you, we will still fail together,” Fernandes relayed.
Uncertain Summer Ahead
Fernandes’ comments highlight the complexity of his situation at Manchester United. While he has repeatedly expressed loyalty to the club and his teammates, the ongoing uncertainty surrounding management, ownership, and squad structure leaves open the possibility of a high-profile summer move.
With his leadership, creativity, and experience, Fernandes remains central to United’s midfield. However, the combination of off-field instability and past frustrations under Amorim has made both the dressing room and fans increasingly anxious about his future.
As Manchester United enters a transitional phase, Fernandes’ next decision will be crucial. His presence—or potential departure—could shape the club’s transfer strategy, squad planning, and competitiveness for the upcoming Premier League season.
For now, teammates and supporters alike are left hoping that Fernandes will remain at Old Trafford, continuing to lead the side both on and off the pitch. Yet, with contract negotiations and potential offers from abroad looming, the summer of 2026 may prove decisive for the captain’s Manchester United journey.
Bruno Fernandes’ next move will not only affect his own career but could also define Manchester United’s trajectory as the club seeks to regain stability and contend at the highest level in English and European football.
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