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Bruno Fernandes has disclosed that next summer's World Cup had no bearing on his choice to remain at Manchester United. The Red Devils skipper was linked with a lucrative switch to Saudi Arabia during the summer window, but the midfielder maintains that his sole focus was staying put at his present club, despite ongoing transfer speculation.
Prospective offers from Al-Hilal and Al-Ittihad have been the subject of conjecture, yet the Portugal international stays devoted to at least another campaign at Old Trafford. Fernandes, 31, has two seasons remaining on his deal, with an option to extend for a further 12 months, and he continues to be a vital figure for Ruben Amorim.
In June, Fernandes disclosed that the president of Al-Hilal contacted him regarding a transfer. The Saudi outfit were reportedly prepared to stump up a $400 million package - $135 million for United and a $265 million contract for the playmaker.
The former Sporting star has experienced an inconsistent campaign so far following two penalty misses, but stood out as a rare positive in a disappointing 2024-25 season at Old Trafford. Fernandes still boasts two goals to his name this term, however.
And prior to Portugal's World Cup qualifier against the Republic of Ireland, the midfielder tackled the rumours surrounding his future. Fernandes offered a straightforward response regarding his decision to remain with United, reports the Mirror.
"I didn't close the door on moving to Saudi Arabia because of the World Cup," he stated. "That was never in my mind. I wanted to stay at Manchester United, and the club wanted me to stay. That's all there is to it."
Fernandes declined to discuss the prospect of leaving next summer, with nothing appearing imminent at present.
"That's an impossible scenario to imagine, because it's nothing that's been discussed with me," he said. "When it was discussed with me, I spoke openly with you at a press conference before a Nations League match.
"I like to enjoy the moment, and the most important thing for me now is representing the national team, because it's a source of enormous pride to be able to play tomorrow [Saturday], and I still don't know if I'll play, let alone if I'll leave Manchester United in a year.
"I'm happy where I am; otherwise, I wouldn't have stayed, but it's something that doesn't affect me."
Fernandes will be hoping to feature in Portugal's World Cup qualifying encounter against the Republic of Ireland on Saturday evening. The Nations League winners maintain an unblemished record in Group F following victories over Armenia and Hungary as they begin their quest to reach North America next summer.
"We have to take it game by game, even though we know we want to reach the World Cup as quickly as possible," the 31 year old told Channel 11 via O Jogo. "Our main goal is to win every game, and we're focused on that, knowing that the dream of the World Cup is always present.
"Since I was little, I've dreamed of winning the World Cup, and it's not just my dream, it's the dream of all Portuguese people. First, we'll do everything we can to be there, and then we'll do everything we can to make that dream come true."
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