Bruno Fernandes has revealed that he turned down an offer to leave Manchester United last summer.
Fernandes scored a hat-trick as Manchester United booked their place in the Europa League quarter-finals with a 4-1 win over Real Sociedad on Thursday.
The Portugal international has been a shining light in an otherwise difficult season, scoring 15 goals and providing 13 assists across all competitions.
⚽️⚽️⚽️ and we’re into the next round!! Thank you for the amazing support yesterday 🙌🏼 pic.twitter.com/pebS6VYVmK
— Bruno Fernandes (@B_Fernandes8) March 14, 2025
Speaking after the win at Sociedad, Fernandes discussed his desire to be part of a successful team at Old Trafford. The 30-year-old revealed how he held talks with the club over a potential exit in the summer but was persuaded to form part of the rebuild.
“I sat with the club because I had an offer to leave,” he revealed.
“We talked about the possibility of me leaving the club or staying. They said what they wanted from me. I just asked if they still see me as part of the future of the club or not. I spoke at the time with (Erik) Ten Hag also.
“He was very clear with me, the club was very clear with me, that they thought I would be a big part of this rebuild. I thought that we could be successful.”
Fernandes’ recent performances come amid criticism of him from former Manchester United captain Roy Keane last month. Speaking on The Overlap podcast, Keane questioned the midfielder’s captaincy credentials and said Fernandes was not “a fighter”.
“Roy Keane was an amazing captain for the club, one of the best as everyone says,” said Fernandes.
“I didn’t have the chance to see much from him, only the last few years, but he was a great player that won everything for the club. He’s massively respected from everyone and has all my respect.
“He has to give his opinion in a programme and this is what he thinks about me.
“I don’t want to copy anyone. I try to be the best captain that I can for my team-mates and help everyone in the best way I know.”
