Manchester United Captain Bruno Fernandes has reaffirmed his commitment to the club by signing a new contract that will keep him at Old Trafford until June 2027, with an option to extend for an additional year.
This announcement cements the 29-year-old Portuguese midfielder’s future with the Red Devils, continuing a journey that began when he joined from Sporting Lisbon in January 2020 for £47 million.
Since his arrival, Fernandes has been a transformative figure for Manchester United, contributing 79 goals and 67 assists in 234 appearances across all competitions. His influence on the pitch has been profound, and his leadership qualities were recognized when he was appointed club captain in July 2023, replacing Harry Maguire.
“Everybody knows the passion I have for Manchester United. I can see how positive the future is going to be, and I am relishing leading this team forward,” Fernandes expressed with enthusiasm following the contract announcement. “I understand the responsibility and significance of wearing this shirt, and the levels of dedication and desire required to represent this incredible club.”
Fernandes’ new deal supersedes his previous contract, signed in 2022, which was due to expire in 2026. His commitment to the club highlights his belief in the direction that manager Erik ten Hag and the club’s leadership are taking.
Despite facing criticism at times from former United captains like Gary Neville and Roy Keane, ten Hag has consistently supported Fernandes, seeing him as central to the team’s ambitions.
The midfielder, known for his ability to inspire his teammates and his knack for delivering in crucial moments, has already etched his name into the club’s storied history. Reflecting on his time at United, Fernandes said, “I have had so many special moments here already. Hearing my name sung from the Stretford End, scoring a hat-trick against Leeds, leading the team out at Old Trafford on European nights, and lifting trophies at Wembley.”
While Fernandes was not listed among United’s ‘untouchables’ this summer—players for whom the club was unwilling to entertain transfer offers—a move was always considered unlikely unless an irresistible offer came in, which did not happen. Despite some speculation about his future, Fernandes made it clear that he believes his “best moments in a United shirt are still to come.”
The midfielder’s confidence is shared by Manchester United’s sporting director, Dan Ashworth, who lauded Fernandes for his leadership and consistency. “Bruno has performed at such a high level with remarkable consistency since he arrived at Manchester United,” Ashworth said.
“His dedication to the club epitomizes what it takes to be a United player. He remains pivotal to everything that we want to achieve here, and we look forward to working together to deliver the success that this club demands.”
Fernandes’ new contract comes at a time when United is looking to reclaim its place among Europe’s elite. The club has shown flashes of potential under ten Hag, and Fernandes’ leadership will be crucial as they strive to challenge for major trophies in the coming seasons. His decision to extend his stay at Old Trafford sends a strong message about his belief in the club’s project and his determination to lead Manchester United back to the top.
