Bruno Fernandes in action for Manchester United in 2025 pre-season friendly

Jorge Jesus admits Al Nassr push for Bruno Fernandes – Manchester United captain chooses to stay

John William Last updated: Aug 8, 2025, 8:26 am
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Image: IMAGO / Icon Sportswire

Al Nassr manager Jorge Jesus has publicly admitted he wanted to sign Bruno Fernandes from Manchester United this summer — but the midfielder is staying put.

Speaking after Al Nassr’s 4–0 win over Rio Ave in pre-season, the Portuguese coach revealed that discussions with the United captain stretched back beyond this transfer window.

“I wanted to, but Bruno decided on staying. We had already spoken last year. This year I knew he had made the decision to continue with Amorim,” Jesus told reporters in Portugal.

Saudi Ambitions and a Portuguese Core

Reports from A Bola last week claimed Al Nassr had been drawing up plans for a Portuguese spine featuring Cristiano Ronaldo, João Félix, Bruno Fernandes, and Jorge Jesus — the man who handed Fernandes his Sporting CP debut in 2017/18.

Fernandes, however, has shown no signs of leaving Old Trafford. He also rejected a lucrative move to Al Hilal previously, choosing to remain in Europe and maintain his role as a central figure under Rúben Amorim.

Jesus Takes Swipe at Premier League

The Al Nassr boss couldn’t resist stirring the debate over England’s footballing supremacy.

“He is in a league that they say is the best in the world, but I do not agree. For me, it is the Spanish league,” said Jorge Jesus.

Analyst Verdict

While Saudi Pro League sides continue to pursue Europe’s top talents, Fernandes’ decision underlines his loyalty to Manchester United and his belief in Amorim’s project. Still, with Ronaldo already in Riyadh, Al Nassr’s interest is unlikely to fade entirely.

Key Insights

  • Jorge Jesus confirms approach for Fernandes
  • United captain staying under Amorim
  • Al Nassr want Portuguese core
  • Fernandes previously turned down Al Hilal
  • Jesus claims La Liga > Premier League

What’s Next?

Al Nassr are expected to revisit their interest in future windows, especially if United’s project under Amorim falters or Fernandes’ contract situation changes. For now, the Old Trafford captain remains central to United’s 2025/26 plans.


Should Bruno Fernandes ever swap Old Trafford for a Saudi Pro League challenge — or is he right to stay loyal to Rúben Amorim’s Manchester United project?

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