How Manchester United persuaded Bruno Fernandes to remain after he was ‘set to depart’ – EPL How Manchester United persuaded Bruno Fernandes to remain after he was ‘set to depart’ – EPL
How Manchester United persuaded Bruno Fernandes to remain after he was ‘set to depart’ – EPL

October 19, 2024

How Manchester United persuaded Bruno Fernandes to remain after he was ‘set to depart’ – EPL

Credit to English Premier League Image Gallery

According to various reports, Manchester United’s captain was reportedly “prepared to leave” the club during the summer transfer window. This situation arose due to ongoing uncertainties regarding his future at Old Trafford. However, the club seemingly panicked in response to the potential departure and decided to offer him a significant new contract in an effort to keep him on board. This move indicates that the club recognized the importance of retaining their captain amidst rumors and speculations swirling around his potential exit.

In August, the Portuguese midfielder officially signed a contract extension, which guarantees his presence at Old Trafford until 2027. Additionally, the deal includes an option for a further year, providing the club with some flexibility for the future. This new contract not only underscores the club’s commitment to him as a key player but also reflects the trust they place in his leadership abilities and contributions on the field.

At 30 years old, he has embraced the captaincy role under Erik ten Hag’s management, leading the team with his experience and skill. Nevertheless, there had been persistent rumors of interest from elite clubs such as Bayern Munich and Barcelona. These speculations intensified the likelihood of his departure during the summer transfer window, as both clubs were believed to be keen on acquiring his services.

ESPN reports indicate that the possibility of Fernandes leaving Manchester United was quite substantial, highlighting that he was indeed “ready to leave” during the most recent transfer window. This revelation illustrates the precarious nature of his situation at the time and suggests that the club’s last-minute decision to extend his contract was crucial in retaining him.

However, not wanting to lose their captain as the club rebuild with INEOS on board, the report says ‘the club panicked and gave him a massive new deal.’

Fernandes strongly suggested that he was contemplating his future prior to signing his new contract, stating in an interview with DAZN Portugal in April, “Clearly, it’s not solely up to me, is it?”

‘A player always has to want to be here, but at the same time, you have to want him to stay. At the moment, I feel there’s that on both sides.’

‘I’m not thinking too much about the future, not least because, obviously, this season hasn’t been at the level I’d hoped for, either individually or collectively, so far.

Credit to English Premier League Image Gallery

‘So, if you want me to be very honest, if I have to think about not continuing in the Premier League, it won’t be until after the Euros because nothing will be able to take my focus away from the FA Cup final and the Euros, as there’s nothing more important than that at the moment.’

However, on signing the new contract in August, thought to be worth over £300,000-a-week, he said: ‘Everybody knows the passion I have for Manchester United. I understand the responsibility and significance of wearing this shirt, and the levels of dedication and desire required to represent this incredible club.

‘I have had so many special moments here already; hearing my name sung from the Stretford End, scoring a hat-trick against Leeds, leading the team out at Old Trafford on European nights and lifting trophies at Wembley. But I wouldn’t have signed this contract if I didn’t believe that my best moments in a United shirt are still to come.

‘From my discussions with the football leadership and manager, it is clear how determined everyone is to fight for major trophies in the years ahead. I can see how positive the future is going to be and I am relishing leading this team forward.’

Credit to English Premier League Image Gallery

Fernandes will be in action for Manchester United on Saturday against Brentford at Old Trafford after being shown a red card in two of his last three outings for the Red Devils.

His straight red against Tottenham last month was successfully appealed and he did not receive a Premier League ban as a result.

However, he was then sent-off in the following match as United drew 3-3 at Porto in the Europa League.

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Katarzyna Nowak

Katarzyna Nowak is a seasoned writer with over five years of experience in editorial content, news reporting, and cricket sportsbook app reviews. As an author for Latest Football News, she combines her deep understanding of the sports betting industry with a passion for cricket, delivering insightful and accurate content that keeps readers informed and engaged.