Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has demonstrated remarkable loyalty by rejecting a lucrative offer from Saudi Pro League club Al-Hilal that would have seen him earn approximately £700,000 per week tax-free.
The Saudi club was prepared to pay Manchester United around £100 million for the Portuguese midfielder's services and had hoped to secure his signature before the Club World Cup. However, Fernandes opted to remain with the Premier League side despite the eye-watering financial package.
Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand has admitted he would have found it difficult to turn down such an offer. Speaking to The Mirror, Ferdinand said: "If I was him, I think I'd have found it difficult to say no. I've got to be honest."
Ferdinand praised Fernandes' commitment to the club, highlighting the rarity of such loyalty in modern football. "The one thing it says to me, there's a loyalty. And I think that word gets banded about quite a lot, but we don't really see it often from the club's point of view and the players," he added.
Loyalty in an Era of Big-Money Transfers
Fernandes' decision comes at a time when several high-profile players have been lured to the Saudi Pro League with substantial financial packages. His choice to remain at Old Trafford signals his commitment to the club's project despite the potential for unprecedented personal earnings.
The 29-year-old midfielder has been a pivotal figure for Manchester United since joining from Sporting Lisbon in January 2020. As club captain, his leadership both on and off the pitch has been crucial during a challenging period for the Red Devils.
This development will undoubtedly please Manchester United supporters who have come to view Fernandes as one of the team's most important players in recent years.
Stay updated with the latest football news and transfers by following BenriNews on our social media platforms:
