Sports

Bruno Fernandes Snubs £200M Saudi Offer to Stay at Man United—For Now

By Kris Fox

Published June 3, 2025

Updated 3rd June 2025

Bruno Fernandes Snubs £200M Saudi Offer to Stay at Man United—For Now.

So much for the desert riches.

Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has turned down a jaw-dropping £200 million contract offer from Saudi Pro League powerhouse Al-Hilal—choosing, for now, to stay and fight through the chaos at Old Trafford.

Al-Hilal had gone all in. They were ready to offer him a three-year deal worth over £200 million, tax-free, and a weekly wage north of £700,000. His agent, Miguel Pinho, even spent several days holed up at the Four Seasons in Riyadh, deep in talks with the club. And yet—Fernandes said no.

“I’m Not Done Yet”

Reports say Bruno gave the offer serious thought. Who wouldn’t? But after speaking with his family and weighing the bigger picture, he told Al-Hilal he’s staying put—for now.

It’s not like things are going well at United. Far from it. The team just finished 15th in the Premier League—their worst finish in decades—and then lost the Europa League final to Spurs, blowing their last shot at qualifying for the Champions League. But despite that mess, Bruno chose loyalty over luxury.

According to transfer guru Fabrizio Romano, Fernandes still wants to compete at the highest level of European football. That line alone has fans breathing a little easier—and others quietly wondering if he's already eyeing an escape to a Champions League club somewhere else in Europe.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s deal with Al Nassr, which began in early 2023, is believed to be the richest contract ever signed in football. Reports suggest he’s pulling in around €200 million annually—a figure that includes not just his on-pitch earnings, but also a hefty package of commercial and sponsorship deals. On a weekly basis, that works out to roughly €3.85 million.

“The Club Needs Fighters—Not Runners”

Former United defender Gary Neville was quick to praise the decision, calling it “massive” on Sky Sports.

“To turn that kind of money down when the club is at rock bottom? That says something,” Neville said. “Bruno could’ve just walked away. But he didn’t. And fans are going to remember that.”

It’s true. After five years, 290 games, and 98 goals in red, Fernandes could’ve cashed in and disappeared into the Saudi spotlight. Instead, he’s sticking it out—at least for now.

But the Signs Were There…

Just days ago, it didn’t look so certain.

Fernandes had posted a cryptic Instagram Story: “If you tried and failed, congratulations! There are people who don’t even try.” That sparked panic among fans, especially since he was seen hanging out with Al-Hilal star Joao Cancelo at a birthday dinner.

Some thought he was already halfway out the door. And frankly, nobody would’ve blamed him. United’s post-season tour was a disaster—low energy, poor performances, and fans in Malaysia paying up to £260 just to watch a squad that looked beaten down and uninspired.

After the Europa League final loss, Fernandes even admitted that a summer exit wasn’t off the table.

“If the club thinks it’s time to part ways… it is what it is. Football sometimes is like this.”

It felt like a goodbye.

A Short-Term Win for United—but What’s Next?

Al-Hilal wanted a marquee signing for this month’s Club World Cup. They thought Bruno was that guy. But now that dream’s dead, and they’ll have to pivot to other targets.

For Manchester United, this is a short-term win—a much-needed one. But the truth is, the club still faces serious pressure, especially after missing out on a £100 million Champions League payout. And if United can’t rebuild fast, Fernandes might not say no next time.

Right now, he's still wearing the armband. But don’t mistake this loyalty for permanence. Bruno Fernandes wants trophies—and he wants them in Europe. That’s not a luxury United can offer anymore.

People Also Ask

Is Bruno Fernandes the best midfielder in the world?
While it's subjective, many fans and pundits rank Fernandes among the top midfielders globally due to his creativity, work rate, and consistent goal contributions.

How much is Bruno Fernandes' salary per week?
Bruno Fernandes currently earns around £280,000 per week at Manchester United, making him one of the club's highest-paid players.

Is Fernandes leaving Man Utd?
Not at the moment. Fernandes has rejected a massive offer from Al-Hilal and remains committed to Manchester United, at least for the foreseeable future.

How much did Al-Hilal offer Bruno Fernandes?
Reports suggest Al-Hilal offered Fernandes a three-year deal worth £200 million, along with a £100 million transfer fee to Manchester United.

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