MANCHESTER, England: Bruno Fernandes has revealed where he wants to play if he leaves Manchester United after sparking controversy by claiming the club wanted to sell him to Saudi Arabia this summer.
The 31-year-old midfielder said some club officials did not want to keep him and accused United of not having the “courage” to sell him, something that left him “deeply hurt”.
Part of the interview with Portuguese media that aired yesterday saw Fernandes express his desire to play in Spain or Italy, if he leaves Old Trafford.
Fernandes said: “I want to stay at Manchester United as long as I feel valued.
“I want to experience the Spanish league and fight for big titles in Italy. I have a lot of connections with Italy… my daughter was born there.”
Fernandes began his career in Italy, playing for Novara, Udinese and Sampdoria before returning to Portugal.
“I’ve thought about returning to Portugal and the first choice is Sporting. To be happy, like I was at Sporting. But I don’t want to ruin the image I’ve left behind.
“But I don’t want to force myself there, I want to add value. I even try to play in the district league, even at an older age.”
“Playing in the county league for love, it feels different. I have friends there.”
Fernandes left Sporting Lisbon to join United in a deal worth up to £68 million in January 2020.
United sources insist they do not want to sell Fernandes because he is central to the club’s long-term plans.
But the possibility of a midfield reshuffle – with Fernandes, Casemiro, Manuel Ugarte and Kobbie Mainoo leaving the club – is not impossible.
Although Fernandes has mentioned Spain, Italy and a possible return to Portugal, Bundesliga side Bayern Munich have also been linked with the player recently.
Speculation over Fernandes’ future is currently running high with interest from Saudi Arabia expected to return in January.