Bruno Fernandes’ private expectations for Man United after Ruben Amorim update

Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes is of interest to teams in Saudi Arabia though his focus is on ensuring Champions League football returns to Old Trafford soon

Bruno Fernandes is privately of the belief that Manchester United can finish in a Champions League qualification place, it has been claimed. Despite finishing fifteenth last season, Ruben Amorim’s side were one game away from playing in Europe’s top competition, but defeat to Tottenham in the Europa League final denied them that chance.

Fortunes for United and Amorim have improved too much in the new season with four defeats suffered from their opening few fixtures. However, the Reds entered the October international break on a high with a 2-0 victory over Sunderland at Old Trafford.

Pressure on Amorim was somewhat relieved following that result, with United now tenth and only three points off the top five and bitter rivals Manchester City. Though there are 31 games still to play, Fernandes believes it is possible for United to finish fifth or even higher, according to BBC Sport sources.

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It has also been stated in that report that Fernandes is committed to the project and is determined to put everything he has into sealing a better future for United. No European football could benefit Amorim and Co. with more time to prepare for Premier League games on the weekend.

Fernandes performing at a high level will almost certainly be crucial to that with Amorim continuing to deploy him in a deeper role. Despite his potential frustration at that and United’s struggles, he is not interested in a move to the Saudi Pro League.

Al-Hilal made a significant offer to the 31-year-old this past summer, but that was turned down. Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr are also believed to be interested. His contract at United expires in the summer of 2027 with the club having no imminent plans to sell him.

These updates follow comments from Sir Jim Ratcliffe regarding Amorim’s future as head coach which certainly confirms plans to stick by him despite a rocky start.

“He has not had the best of seasons. Amorim is a good guy. I would say Ruben needs to demonstrate that he’s a great coach over three years,” he said.

“That’s where I would be – three years – because football is not overnight. Look at Mikel Arteta at Arsenal, he had a miserable time the first couple of years.”

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