'My Wife...': Why Bruno Fernandes Rejected 9 Crore/Week Offer From Saudi

Last Updated:April 27, 2026, 19:07 IST

Bruno Fernandes says he rejected huge Saudi Pro League offers to stay at Manchester United, citing family values, unfinished ambitions, and desire to build his legacy at the club.

Bruno Fernandes has opened up on his decision to stay at Manchester United despite receiving lucrative, and potentially life-changing contract offers from the Saudi Pro League. The United skipper said that family values and unfinished ambitions ultimately shaped his choice.

Speaking on The Wayne Rooney Show with club legend Wayne Rooney, Fernandes admitted that the financial pull from Saudi Arabia was significant, but not enough to outweigh his desire to continue contributing at the highest level. The Portuguese midfielder stressed that his motivation was never purely financial, but rooted in purpose and legacy.

“I stayed because I thought I still had something that I can give back to the club," Fernandes said, underlining his commitment to United during a period of transition and rebuilding.

Since arriving at Old Trafford, he has been one of the team’s most influential figures, often carrying the creative burden and setting standards on and off the pitch. In 2026, Fernandes has been one of the best players in the Premier League — if not the world — and has single-handedly won several points for United.

So, it seems almost unbelievable that the club had reportedly told him that they wouldn’t stand in his way if he wanted to accept a wage offer close to Rs. 9 crore/week, with an additional 1,275 crore to United in the transfer fee.

Fernandes, however, credited his grounded upbringing and, in particular, the perspective of his wife for helping him make a clear-headed decision. He explained that both of them share similar priorities — focusing on fulfillment rather than chasing wealth.

“The good thing I have in my family is that my wife is pretty down to earth like me," he said. “We’re very aware that we don’t want to be the richest people in the world. We just want to achieve our dreams and live a good life with our kids."

It was a simple yet powerful question from his wife that ultimately clarified his thinking: had he achieved everything he set out to in football? Fernandes admitted that this moment of reflection made him realize there was still more he wanted to accomplish in Europe’s top competitions, particularly with United.

Her words, he said, reaffirmed that they were aligned in their outlook on life and career.

“That small thing she said made me understand that she’s on the same page as me," Fernandes added. “Let’s keep trying and see where this takes me."

It’s a decision that, so far, has only enhanced his legacy as one of the most loved players at Old Trafford.

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