Amorim Firm on Keeping Bruno Fernandes Amid Saudi Pressure
Wafric News – May 7, 2025
Manchester United head coach Rúben Amorim has made it clear that Bruno Fernandes is staying put—despite mounting interest from Saudi giants Al-Hilal.
Speaking ahead of United’s Europa League semi-final return leg against Athletic Bilbao, Amorim dismissed rumours of a summer exit for the club captain, describing the Portuguese star as “one of the top players in the world.”
“We need top players, and Bruno is exactly that. He’s not just important because of his goals or stats—he’s a leader, our captain, and a key part of what we’re building here,” Amorim said at a press conference on Wednesday.
The 30-year-old midfielder, who joined United from Sporting Lisbon in 2020, played a starring role in last week’s first-leg 3–0 win in Spain, scoring twice to put the Red Devils in firm control of the tie. With the second leg set for Old Trafford, United are aiming to keep their trophy hopes alive in what has been a challenging season.
While Saudi clubs continue to eye Fernandes with a big-money offer, Amorim isn’t flinching—repeating a stance he took earlier in the year when Real Madrid were linked with the Portuguese international.
“A lot of clubs want Bruno—and players like Garnacho too—but our stance hasn’t changed. We want to keep our best talents,” he added.
Meanwhile, Alejandro Garnacho—who appeared alongside Amorim in the press conference—also addressed rumours around his future. The 20-year-old winger, who has made 140 appearances and scored 26 goals for United, reaffirmed his commitment to the club despite interest from Chelsea and Napoli.
“You always hear things, but I’ve got a contract here until 2028. I’m happy at Manchester United,” Garnacho said.
United are still hoping to end the season on a high note, with the Europa League their only remaining shot at silverware. They currently sit 15th in the Premier League—a far cry from their historic dominance—after Amorim took charge following the dismissal of Erik ten Hag in November.
In team news, defender Matthijs de Ligt is a doubt for Thursday’s clash after missing training. The Dutchman returned from injury in the first leg but had to come off early during Sunday’s 4–3 defeat at Brentford.
Christian Eriksen also sat out training but is expected to be fit in time for the second leg at Old Trafford.
By WafricNews Desk.
By WafricNews Desk.
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