The Portugal international came close to leaving Manchester United during the off-season, with Saudi giants Al-Hilal reportedly offering a staggering 100-million-pound transfer fee alongside wages of up to 700,000 per week.
Sources indicate that United were prepared to let Fernandes depart, placing the midfielder under considerable pressure to consider the move.
Ultimately, Fernandes resisted the transfer. Talks with his family and head coach Ruben Amorim played a decisive role in his decision to remain at Old Trafford, a choice he described as necessary despite leaving him “hurt” by the circumstances.
“I would like to experience the Spanish league and fight for big titles in Italy,” Fernandes told Canal 11. “I have many connections to Italy… my daughter was born there.
“I’ve already thought about returning to Portugal… the first option would be Sporting. To be happy, like it was with Sporting. But I don’t want to ruin the image that was left.
“But I don’t want to drag myself there, I want to add to it. And even try district football, at an advanced age. You play in the district for love, you feel different. I have friends in the district.”
The midfielder is set to enter the final 18 months of his Manchester United contract in January, adding a layer of uncertainty over his future at the club.
While Fernandes remains a key figure for United on the pitch, the summer saga underscores the growing tension surrounding his long-term plans.
With his ambitions clear and interest from some of Europe’s elite clubs likely to intensify, the next 18 months could prove pivotal in shaping the next chapter of his career.
