Ruben Amorim says Bruno Fernandes will stay at Manchester United

Amorim insists Fernandes is vital to Manchester United as Saudi clubs show interest.

Ruben Amorim and Bruno Fernandes at Old Trafford in Manchester, England, on February 6, 2025. Photo by Ash Donelon/Getty Images

By Anna Fadiah and Hayu Andini

Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim has firmly dismissed speculation linking Bruno Fernandes with a lucrative move to Saudi Arabia, stating that the Portuguese midfielder remains a cornerstone of the club’s future. With Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal reportedly preparing a substantial offer for the Manchester United captain, Amorim reiterated his stance during a press conference on Wednesday, stating unequivocally that Bruno Fernandes is not for sale.

The Portugal international, who joined United from Sporting Lisbon in January 2020, continues to play a pivotal role at Old Trafford. Fernandes has been in fine form this season despite United’s struggles in the Premier League. He recently scored twice in a 3-0 Europa League semi-final first-leg victory against Athletic Bilbao, underlining his continued influence and leadership on the pitch.

“Bruno is a top player, we need top players,” said Amorim. “He’s the captain and a leader in the dressing room. His importance goes far beyond the goals and assists — he drives the team forward and sets the tone. It's completely normal that top clubs are interested in someone like him, but our position has not changed. We want Bruno here, and he will stay.”

Amorim reiterates commitment to Fernandes amid Saudi interest

Reports earlier this week suggested that Al-Hilal were preparing a formal bid for Fernandes, hoping to lure the 30-year-old midfielder to the Middle East in the summer transfer window. These reports follow earlier interest from Real Madrid, which Amorim also shot down in March by telling Fernandes directly that he wasn’t “going anywhere.”

In the face of persistent transfer rumours, Amorim has remained defiant. “It’s easy to understand his importance — not only through the numbers but in how he plays,” he said. “He has contributed immensely over the past five years. Bruno Fernandes is clearly one of the top players in the world.”

The statement from Amorim appears to be a direct message to any suitors, whether from Saudi Arabia or Europe: Bruno Fernandes is not for sale.

Garnacho affirms commitment amid speculation

Alongside the continued speculation about Bruno Fernandes, United winger Alejandro Garnacho has also been the subject of increasing transfer rumours. The 20-year-old Argentine has attracted interest from both Chelsea and Napoli, especially as United face restrictions related to profit and sustainability rules and begin a squad rebuild.

Despite the noise surrounding his future, Garnacho, who joined United's academy and has now made over 140 appearances, expressed his contentment at the club.

“Obviously as a footballer you are always going to read and listen to some rumours about the future,” Garnacho said at the same press conference. “But I have a contract here until 2028, so I’m happy here.”

His words will reassure fans who have watched the young forward develop into a key figure at the club. Garnacho scored in United’s FA Cup final win over Manchester City last May and has since been one of the few consistent performers in a turbulent season.

United face Bilbao in decisive Europa League clash

Manchester United’s upcoming Europa League semi-final second leg against Athletic Bilbao at Old Trafford offers a welcome break from league frustrations. The Red Devils hold a commanding 3-0 advantage from the first leg in Spain, thanks to goals from Casemiro and a Bruno Fernandes brace. Bilbao’s Dani Vivian was also sent off during the match, making the return leg an even steeper uphill battle for the visitors.

The Europa League represents United’s final opportunity to win silverware this season after a dismal Premier League campaign that has seen them sink to 15th in the table. Amorim, who took over from Erik ten Hag in November, knows the pressure is on to end the season with a trophy and begin rebuilding momentum.

Despite the advantage, United face some injury concerns. Dutch defender Matthijs de Ligt is expected to miss the second leg after limping off in the 35th minute of Sunday’s 4-3 loss to Brentford. The former Bayern Munich centre-back had only recently returned from a month-long injury and did not take part in Wednesday’s training session.

Christian Eriksen was also absent from training but is expected to be fit for Thursday’s match.

Amorim focused on long-term project

Appointed midway through the season following Ten Hag’s sacking, Amorim has already begun reshaping Manchester United’s playing philosophy and tactical identity. While results have been inconsistent, the Portuguese coach has emphasized a long-term vision built around a core of experienced leaders like Fernandes, emerging stars like Garnacho, and targeted reinforcements.

Keeping Bruno Fernandes at Manchester United is a critical part of that project. With the club’s need to reestablish itself both in the Premier League and in European competition, Amorim has made it clear that losing their captain is not an option — regardless of how much money is offered.

“I said it before and I will say it again — Bruno is not going anywhere,” Amorim stated emphatically. “He is vital to everything we are building here.”

Saudi interest grows as Pro League pursues European talent

Saudi Arabian clubs, flush with funds and ambition, have continued their aggressive pursuit of top European stars. The move to sign Fernandes would be a major coup, particularly for Al-Hilal, who are already bolstering their squad with international names. However, Amorim’s comments suggest that any attempt to lure the United captain away will be firmly rebuffed.

With the summer transfer window approaching, speculation will likely continue, but Fernandes’ recent performances and Amorim’s firm backing show that the midfielder remains fully committed to United’s cause — at least for now.

As United prepare for the crucial second leg against Bilbao, Amorim will be hoping that Fernandes and Garnacho continue to show why they are essential pieces of the club’s future. For now, all signs point to both players staying put, as Manchester United look to finish a difficult season on a high and prepare for a more stable 2025 campaign.