Ruben Amorim expressed confidence on Friday that Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes intends to remain at the club, despite speculation linking the Portuguese midfielder with a high-profile move to Saudi Arabia.
Fernandes featured in United’s 3-1 comeback win over a Hong Kong XI, where 18-year-old substitute Chido Obi impressed with a second-half brace. The match wrapped up United’s post-season Asia tour following a disappointing Premier League campaign that saw them finish 15th.
Amorim, who took over managerial duties from Erik ten Hag partway through the season, admitted the future of Fernandes remains a priority issue during the off-season. The 30-year-old has reportedly attracted interest from Saudi Pro League side Al Hilal.
When asked whether Fernandes had just played his final match for United, Amorim replied: “I don’t think so. I’m not certain, but that’s my feeling. He sees the changes we’re trying to make… I believe he wants to stay.”
Amorim added that he had spoken with Fernandes and got a strong sense of the midfielder’s desire to remain. “When you speak to someone, sometimes you just feel it—and I think he wants to stay.”
Despite being jeered in Malaysia earlier in the week, United ended their Asia tour on a positive note. However, they struggled during the first half against a Hong Kong team ranked 153rd globally. The hosts took the lead in the 19th minute after a mistake by veteran goalkeeper Tom Heaton allowed a long-range effort from Brazil-born Juninho to find the net.
Fernandes impressed in the first half, setting the tempo in midfield and creating chances. However, he missed a clear opportunity when through on goal, opting for an extravagant finish that was saved.
Alongside Fernandes, winger Alejandro Garnacho also started, despite ongoing speculation about his own future. Regulars Casemiro and Rasmus Højlund were also named in the starting lineup.
United turned the match around after the break, with Obi levelling with a sharp finish just five minutes into the second half before nodding in his second goal in the 82nd minute. Ayden Heaven sealed the win with a late header.
Amad Diallo, who faced backlash after reacting to abuse from fans in Kuala Lumpur earlier in the week, came on in the second half alongside Obi as Amorim rotated the squad heavily.