“Amorim asked me not to go” – Bruno Fernandes confirms United stay after rejecting Saudi offer | OneFootball

Bruno Fernandes has decided to reject an astronomical offer from Saudi Arabian club Al Hilal, in order to continue in his role of captain of Manchester United.

Fernandes’ future has been the subject of widespread coverage in recent weeks, with the details of Al Hilal’s offer published across the British media as the prospect of the Portuguese leaving looked a distinct possibility.

Al Hilal, who will take part in this month’s FIFA Club World Cup, reportedly presented Fernandes with a three-year contract worth €77m per year – an incredible €210,000 per day. Despite the lure of a unique salary proposal, as well as linking up with countrymen Rúben Neves and João Cancelo, the Red Devils skipper has opted to remain at Old Trafford.

"There was an opportunity," Fernandes told a press conference ahead of Portugal’s Nations League clash with Germany tomorrow. "The [Al-Hilal] president called me and asked if I wanted to go there. They were waiting for me. I spoke to coach [Ruben] Amorim. He asked me not to go. "Manchester United didn’t want to sell me. They don’t need the money. If I had wanted to leave, they would have made it happen."

“It was an easy move, even at a family level. I had João Cancelo there, my children are used to playing with him in the national team. We have a great friendship. "But I want to maintain myself at the highest level, playing in the big competitions and I feel capable of it."

Amorim’s input appears to have been vital, meaning the United boss has enjoyed a strong start to the summer transfer window. As well as convincing Fernandes to stay, Amorim has seen United confirm the arrival of Brazilian forward Matheus Cunha from Wolverhampton Wanderers, while recent reports indicate United hope to conclude a deal for Brentford’s 20-league goal striker Bryan Mbeumo, having beaten a host of Premier League club’s to the punch.