Manchester United‘s head coach Ruben Amorim has expressed confidence that captain Bruno Fernandes will remain at Old Trafford, despite reports linking the midfielder with a potential move to Saudi Arabia’s Al-Hilal.
The Portuguese manager addressed transfer speculation during his Friday press conference, responding to questions about whether the club’s latest match could mark the end of Fernandes’ tenure in Manchester.
“I don’t think so. I don’t know for sure, nobody knows, but I don’t think so,” Amorim stated regarding the possibility of his compatriot’s departure. “I think he’s seeing us taking some actions to change all the things and I think that is all that he asks.”
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Amorim emphasized his belief in Fernandes’ loyalty to the United project, suggesting the midfielder has turned down various opportunities elsewhere.
“I think he wants to stay. He’s saying no to a lot of things, but it shows that he wants to win,” the manager explained. “I think he’s really young, he’s really good, he needs to be in the best league in the world.”
These comments come amid widespread reports that Al-Hilal have submitted an enormous offer worth approximately £100 million for the 29-year-old playmaker’s services.
When questioned about whether such substantial financial packages might prove irresistible given United’s ongoing restructuring efforts, Amorim dismissed any suggestion the club would be forced into a sale.
“Yes, we can find another way to win money,” he responded, indicating alternative methods for generating revenue without sacrificing key personnel.
The Saudi Pro League has emerged as a major force in the transfer market, successfully attracting high-profile European talent with unprecedented salary packages.
Al-Hilal, in particular, have assembled a star-studded roster featuring players like Neymar and Sergej Milinković-Savić.
Fernandes represents another potential marquee signing for the Riyadh-based club, who reportedly view him as an ideal addition to strengthen their midfield options.Since joining from Sporting CP in early 2020, Fernandes has established himself as one of United’s most influential figures.
His contributions in terms of goals, assists, and leadership have made him central to the team’s tactical setup.
Amorim’s public statements suggest United are prepared to resist even substantial offers if it means maintaining squad stability during their rebuilding phase.
With transfer windows operating on different schedules across various leagues, speculation surrounding Fernandes’ future is likely to continue in the immediate term.
However, the manager’s confident tone indicates the club’s determination to retain their captain. The situation reflects broader challenges facing European clubs as Middle Eastern investment reshapes football’s financial landscape, testing traditional powerhouses’ ability to keep their star players.
