Amorim Determined to Keep Bruno Fernandes at Man Utd Despite Saudi Interest
Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has firmly stated his intention to retain club captain Bruno Fernandes, brushing aside rumours of a potential move to Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal.
The Portuguese playmaker has been central to United’s campaign and recently netted twice in the club’s 3-0 Europa League semi-final first-leg win over Athletic Bilbao. However, speculation surrounding a big-money Saudi offer has dominated the build-up to the return leg at Old Trafford.
Speaking in a pre-match press conference on Wednesday, Amorim expressed strong admiration for Fernandes, calling him “one of the top players in the world” and an irreplaceable asset.
“He is a top player, we need top players. He is a leader, he’s the captain. So, he’s really important,” Amorim said. “It’s normal that a lot of clubs want a player like Bruno… but our idea hasn’t changed. We want Bruno here.”
Amorim had earlier told Fernandes in March that he was “not going anywhere” amid previous links to Real Madrid, and he appears just as resolute now as Saudi clubs circle.
Alongside Fernandes, Alejandro Garnacho has also drawn attention, with Chelsea and Napoli reportedly monitoring the young Argentine forward. But Garnacho, 20, who has contributed 26 goals in 140 appearances for United, reassured fans of his loyalty.
“I have a contract here until 2028, so I’m happy here,” Garnacho stated, acknowledging that transfer rumours are an inevitable part of a footballer’s life.
United remain in pole position to advance to the Europa League final, holding a 3-0 advantage from the first leg, during which Bilbao defender Dani Vivian was sent off. The win offered a rare high in a season where the club sits 15th in the Premier League following Amorim’s takeover from Erik ten Hag in November.
Despite the positive outlook, Matthijs de Ligt is a doubt for Thursday’s match after missing training. The Dutch defender, who recently returned from injury, was forced off early in Sunday’s 4-3 defeat to Brentford. Christian Eriksen also sat out Wednesday’s session but is expected to be fit for selection.
As United chase Europa League glory—one of their few remaining chances for silverware this season—keeping stars like Fernandes and Garnacho will be key to both immediate and long-term revival plans.
