Bruno Fernandes emphasized the need for Manchester United’s new leadership to make significant moves in the summer transfer window before he committed to a new contract at Old Trafford.
Last week, the United captain signed a long-term agreement with the club, securing his stay in Manchester until 2027, with the possibility of extending for an additional year.
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This decision put to rest any doubts about the Portugal international’s future at the club, which had been fueled by his remarks at the end of last season that raised questions about whether he would remain with the team this year.
Although Erik ten Hag guided the club to an FA Cup victory, United had a disappointing finish in the Premier League, ending up in eighth place.
In light of reports that United might consider serious offers for their captain, Fernandes challenged the club to prove that they could align with his ambitions on the field.
United has made four additions to their squad this summer, signing Joshua Zirkzee, Leny Yoro, Matthijs de Ligt, and Noussair Mazraoui. Fernandes believes these signings indicate that the club is serious about competing this season.
‘The club knew that I want to compete with the best teams. They knew that we needed to improve the team. And I think that we’re doing that,’ Fernandes told United’s official website.
While acknowledging the challenge of closing the gap on Manchester City and Arsenal in the league, Fernandes now feels that the squad is capable of competing for more major trophies.
‘Obviously, I said to them: “I don’t need you to promise me that we’re going to win the league.” Because no one can promise that.
‘But at least that we will have a team to compete and be competitive throughout the season, to try to achieve silverware and to compete at the highest levels.
‘I think the club is doing that. It’s trying to bring people in to add more quality players to the team; to make it more competitive, [so everyone is] fighting for their place.
‘But my first choice was always to stay at the club. It wasn’t even about demands, but the things that I wanted to see: the club progressing, [so] I could see a future in that.
‘To be honest, I look now and I see that the club is making an effort towards that.’
