Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has revealed that he felt “hurt” and “sad” after sensing the club would have been willing to let him leave during the summer, when Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal made a lucrative approach.

The 31-year-old Portugal international ultimately rejected the move, despite the financial package on offer being one of the most significant of his career. Fernandes has now spoken openly about the emotional impact of the situation, admitting it was painful to feel that his departure would not have been strongly resisted.

Saudi Interest and a Life-Changing Offer

Al-Hilal’s proposal reportedly included a transfer fee of around £100 million and wages of up to £700,000 per week, more than double Fernandes’ current salary at Old Trafford. Accepting the move would have secured financial stability on an extraordinary scale and offered the chance to compete for domestic silverware in Saudi Arabia.

Fernandes, however, chose to remain at Manchester United, where he has been a central figure since arriving from Sporting in January 2020. His current contract runs until 2027, with the option of a further year.

Despite that commitment, Fernandes says the club’s reaction to the interest left him feeling unsettled.

“It Hurts Me a Bit”

Speaking in an interview with Canal 11, a broadcaster owned by the Portuguese Football Federation, Fernandes reflected on how the situation unfolded.

“From the club I felt it was, ‘If you go, it’s not so bad for us,’” he said. “It hurts me a bit.”

He added that while the feeling was painful, it was also deeply disappointing.

“More than hurting me, it makes me sad,” Fernandes explained. “I’m always available, I always give my best. No one can criticise my commitment.”

Choosing Loyalty Over Money

Fernandes acknowledged that he could have accepted the Saudi move and significantly increased his earnings, as well as improved his chances of winning trophies in the short term. However, he insists his decision to stay was driven by more than finances.

“I could have left and earned much more money,” he said. “I would probably have won many trophies this season, but I decided not to go—not just for family reasons, but because I genuinely love this club.”

That emotional attachment has been evident throughout Fernandes’ United career, during which he has often carried responsibility both on and off the pitch.

Manager Support Proved Crucial

Earlier this year, Fernandes credited Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim with playing a decisive role in convincing him to stay. The midfielder has previously said he wants to continue playing “at the highest level,” something he believes remains possible at Old Trafford.

However, Fernandes suggested that while the manager was keen for him to remain, the club’s leadership may have viewed the situation differently.

“I told the directors that I think they didn’t have the courage to make that decision because the manager wanted me,” he said. “If I had said I wanted to leave, even with the manager wanting me to stay, the club would have let me go.”

Fernandes’ Impact at United

Since joining United for £47 million, Fernandes has been one of the club’s most influential players. He has made over 300 appearances, scoring 103 goals and providing 93 assists, numbers that underline his importance during a turbulent period for the club.

This season, Fernandes has continued to deliver, contributing five goals and seven assists in the Premier League. His performance in the dramatic 4-4 draw with Bournemouth, where he scored a superb free-kick and set up another goal, showcased his leadership and technical quality.

Club Response and Long-Term Plans

Sources close to Manchester United have indicated that the interview was recorded several weeks ago and does not reflect the club’s current position. According to those sources, United have no desire to sell Fernandes and view him as a key part of their long-term strategy.

Fernandes himself has previously stated that he will not hold discussions about his future until after the next World Cup, suggesting that any decisions regarding his long-term role at the club remain on hold.

An Emotional Chapter, Not the End

While the Saudi interest may have left emotional scars, Fernandes’ comments underline his continued commitment to Manchester United. For now, he remains captain, leader, and one of the club’s most reliable performers.

The episode serves as a reminder of the complex balance between loyalty, ambition, and business in modern football—and how even established leaders can be left questioning where they stand.