Portuguese media make verdict on Bruno Fernandes' decision to turn down Al Hilal transfer and stay at Man Utd

A section of the Portuguese media have delivered their unanimous verdict on Bruno Fernandes' decision to turn down a move to Saudi Arabia and stay at Manchester United.

Fernandes, who was United's standout performer in an otherwise disappointing campaign in 2024-25, has spent the last few days giving serious consideration to an offer from Saudi Pro League side Al Hilal.

Al Hilal were willing to part with a significant amount of money for the midfielder. As well as a fee of around £100 million, it was widely reported that a wage package of around £700,000-a-week was on the table.

Fernandes' agent, Miguel Pinho, travelled to the Middle East for negotiations last week, and according to ESPN, the Saudi club were 'confident' of having an offer accepted given United's financial difficulties.

But on Tuesday morning, transfer expert Fabrizio Romano confirmed that Fernandes has turned down the chance to join Al Hilal.

"Despite crazy contract proposal from the Saudi Pro League club, Bruno Fernandes wants to continue playing football in Europe," Romano wrote on X. "Man United captain wants to play at top level in Europe. Decision made."

After the news emerged, a report from Portuguese outlet A Bola offered their take on the situation. "It is increasingly rare to see big stars turn down Saudi millions," said reporter Aderito Esteves. "It is proof of commitment to the club of which he is captain."

Fernandes' decision to stay at Old Trafford was also a discussion point on Portuguese TV.

Bruno Andrade, a well-known Portuguese commentator, praised Fernandes for his loyalty to both Manchester United and Sporting, his former club.

“If he allows his agent to go to Riyadh to negotiate, it is because there is at least a legitimate interest that in earning more, having another project, thinking more about the financial side than the tactical and technical project, but in the end, United wins and Bruno Fernandes wins," he said, as per MaisFutbol.

“And it helps to show – even if there was interest – why it is impossible not to be shaken by such a proposal. That shakes any player, but the decision to stay at United, or at least to stay at United for now, shows a lot about what Bruno Fernandes is like as a personality.

“Bruno Fernandes, for those who remember, and I am sure that Sporting fans remember, was one of the few leading players who agreed to stay at Sporting after Alcochete. He could have left like other players.

"In other words, it shows a lot about his personality. He didn’t abandon Sporting at its worst moment. And he didn’t abandon United at a very complicated time. Where there is little money. There is no Champions League. And there is a coach who is being questioned due to the latest results."

Fernandes has rejected a move to the Saudi Pro League. Image credit: Getty

Andrade added: “In other words, even if he did, it would be legitimate. Earning more money in football or any other area in a legitimate and honest way is completely understandable, but I understand and I am not surprised by Bruno’s decision to stay at United for now.”

A large section of the Portuguese media are seemingly in agreement that Fernandes' decision to turn down a move to Saudi Arabia is an admirable one given the money on offer.

Thoughts on the midfielder turning down a move to Al Hilal? Let us know in the comments.