Bruno Fernandes has opened up about why he rejected a massive transfer offer from Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal, making it clear that his ambition to compete at the highest level and his loyalty to Manchester United were key factors behind his decision.
Despite being presented with a highly lucrative proposal that included a £100 million transfer fee for United and a personal wage package that would have tripled his current earnings — estimated to be around £600,000 per week — Fernandes ultimately chose to stay at Old Trafford.
The proposed deal would have earned the Portuguese midfielder approximately £200 million over the course of three years, a life-changing sum by any standard.
Negotiations reportedly progressed over the weekend, and it appeared that a move could have been on the cards.
However, Fernandes confirmed that his passion for top-level football and his desire to win major trophies with Manchester United remain stronger than any financial incentive.
Speaking about the offer, Fernandes explained that he still wants to test himself against the best in the world and contribute to the club’s success, emphasizing that his heart is still very much with United.
At 30 years old, Fernandes remains one of the Premier League’s top performers and an essential figure in the United squad.
His decision to stay is seen as a major morale boost for the team, especially as they embark on a rebuilding phase under new manager Ruben Amorim.
The 2024/25 season was a disappointing one for the club in terms of results, but Fernandes stood out individually, delivering 19 goals and 19 assists across 60 appearances — a remarkable achievement for a midfielder.
His leadership, consistency, and passion for the badge continue to set him apart.
Interestingly, Manchester United legend Paul Scholes had suggested that the club should seriously consider accepting the £100 million offer from Al-Hilal.
In Scholes’ view, such a significant transfer fee for a 30-year-old player, particularly after a challenging season, would be a financially wise move.
While Scholes’ opinion reflects a practical, business-minded perspective, Fernandes’ rejection of the offer highlights a different value system — one rooted in loyalty, competitiveness, and belief in the club’s future direction.
Reports also suggest that conversations with manager Ruben Amorim and members of Fernandes’ family played a crucial role in shaping his decision to stay.
The support and guidance from those closest to him helped reinforce his choice to continue leading United through this transitional phase.
In doing so, Fernandes has not only reaffirmed his commitment but also sent a strong message about the kind of legacy he wants to build — one that isn’t just about money, but about ambition, pride, and passion for Manchester United.
