Pochettino finally gets Bruno Fernandes opportunity at Manchester United after failed Tottenham move

Mauricio Pochettino will finally have the opportunity to work with Bruno Fernandes at Manchester United, seven years after attempting to sign the midfielder for Tottenham Hotspur.

The Argentine was confirmed as United's new head coach on Friday, replacing Michael Carrick following a difficult start to the Premier League season.

His appointment has revived interest in Fernandes' failed move to Tottenham in 2019, when Sporting CP rejected an offer despite the player's desire to join Pochettino.

The reunion comes as the United captain faces uncertainty over his contract, with reports suggesting he has rejected a second extension proposal.

Pochettino attempted to bring Fernandes to north London during the summer of 2019.

However, Sporting refused to accept Tottenham's offer, leaving the Portuguese international disappointed.

Speaking to The Athletic in September 2022, Fernandes confirmed that Pochettino had personally wanted to sign him.

"The manager, Mauricio Pochettino, was the one who wanted me there," Fernandes said.

"It was a good offer but Sporting tried their best to keep me."

The midfielder explained that he had been eager to move to England.

"Obviously I wanted to go to the Premier League."

Fernandes also recalled his frustration after Sporting president Frederico Varandas discussed the rejected proposal with him.

"The president spoke with me but he spoke with me on the wrong day," he said.

"It was the day after they decided to refuse the offer from Tottenham and I was really angry."

Fernandes eventually joined Manchester United in January 2020, while Pochettino had already left Tottenham two months earlier.

Seven years later, the pair are finally set to work together at Old Trafford.

Pochettino has agreed a contract until June 2029 and will begin his new role on 18 November after completing his commitments with the United States national team.

However, Fernandes' longer-term future remains unresolved.

According to Sky Sports, the 32-year-old has rejected a second contract proposal from Manchester United.

His existing agreement expires in June 2027, although the club retain an option to extend it by another season.

United reportedly want to keep their captain, and further negotiations are expected.

Pochettino's previous interest demonstrates his longstanding admiration for Fernandes, but there is no indication that the appointment will determine the midfielder's contract decision.

The new manager's immediate priority will be improving United's results after a disappointing opening to the campaign.

Pochettino begins work at Manchester United on 18 November before his first match away to Liverpool on Sunday, 22 November. Contract talks with Fernandes are expected to continue.