‎Bruno Fernandes to Leave Man Utd? Dressing Room Fears Captain Will Exit Old Trafford in 2026

‎Manchester United’s dressing room is reportedly bracing itself for the possible departure of captain Bruno Fernandes, with team-mates believing the Portuguese star may finally walk away from Old Trafford after the World Cup this summer. Concerns are growing that the ongoing instability at the club has taken its toll on the midfielder, who could seek a fresh challenge elsewhere.

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‎Manchester United players reportedly believe Bruno Fernandes is ready to leave Old Trafford in 2026, with uncertainty, past transfer tensions, and managerial upheaval influencing his future.

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‎At 31, Fernandes has been a central figure for United since his arrival from Sporting Lisbon in January 2020. However, according to reports, several first-team players feel he has become disillusioned with the situation at the club and would not begrudge him a move should he decide to leave at the end of the season.

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‎The Sun claims there is a strong belief within the squad that Fernandes will depart in 2026, bringing an end to a seven-year spell with the Red Devils. Those close to the team reportedly think the captain has grown weary of what has been described as the ongoing “shambles” surrounding the club.

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‎Despite having a contract that runs until June 2027, this summer could represent one of United’s final realistic chances to sell Fernandes and recoup part of the £47 million (€62.9m) they paid to secure his signature. Since joining, he has consistently been regarded as the club’s standout performer.

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‎Fernandes previously revealed that former manager Ruben Amorim played a key role in convincing him to stay at the club last summer, despite indications that United were prepared to let him go. With Amorim now dismissed and further uncertainty clouding the managerial situation, sources suggest the midfielder may now feel it is time to move on.

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‎A source quoted by The Sun said several players believe Fernandes has reached breaking point. They reportedly feel he has always given everything for the club and understand his frustration, particularly under the new ownership structure and following Amorim’s exit. While a lucrative switch to Saudi Arabia is considered unlikely due to Fernandes’ footballing values, team-mates reportedly acknowledge his total commitment since day one.

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‎Although no one within the squad wants to see him leave, there is a widespread understanding that his decision would be respected if he chose to go.

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‎Part of Fernandes’ apparent desire to seek a new challenge is thought to stem from United’s willingness to sell him last summer, an episode that left a lasting emotional impact. In a candid interview with Canal 11 in December, the midfielder admitted he felt hurt and saddened by the club’s stance.

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‎He explained that it felt as though the club viewed his departure as acceptable, which affected him deeply. Fernandes stated he has always made himself available and given everything on the pitch, yet sensed that financial considerations outweighed loyalty. He claimed the club were open to his exit but hesitated because the manager wanted him to stay.

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‎Fernandes also suggested he feels increasingly vulnerable as he approaches his thirties, noting that English clubs often look to refresh squads once players reach that age. He admitted he had opportunities to leave for more money and potential trophies in the past but chose to remain due to family reasons, his affection for United, and discussions with the manager.

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‎Looking ahead, Fernandes reportedly has a £57 million (€76m) release clause that becomes available to overseas clubs next summer. While he has publicly stated that he will not make any decisions about his future until after the World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, team-mates reportedly believe his mind is already made up.

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‎Recently returning from a hamstring injury that sidelined him for three matches, Fernandes has accumulated 103 goals and 94 assists for United. He has already contributed five goals and eight assists this season alone, underlining just how significant a loss he would be if he ultimately leaves Old Trafford in 2026.