19 November 2023 , 13:29
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Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has denied any suggestion he could be nearing a shock transfer to Saudi Arabia despite a disappointing start to the season.
The Red Devils have lost five of their opening 12 Premier League games this term, which has in turn placed both manager Erik ten Hag and key figures within the squad under serious scrutiny. Fernandes is not exempt from such treatment, especially after only inheriting the armband in the summer.
Fernandes was entrusted with the role of skipper after predecessor Harry Maguire was stripped of his duties, but things have hardly gone off without a hitch for the Portugal international. United's attempt to retain their Carabao Cup crown ended with a fourth-round exit, they are by no means guaranteed progression from their Champions League group and sit sixth in the league table.
With the January transfer window just around the corner, a number of United players have seen their future called into question. Speculation touting Fernandes with the Old Trafford exit appears to be wide of the mark however.
With that being said, the 28-year-old did make clear that he was unhappy with the way things have started for United this season. Fernandes made the comments while away with Portugal on international duty.
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"I'm focusing on the national team and United. I'm happy where I am," Fernandes explained to Sport TV Portugal. "In the national team, we had some very good times, at Manchester United we didn't start the way we wanted.
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Bruno Fernandes has not been at his best for Man Utd so far this season (Getty Images)"I don't look at rumours. I don't pay attention to them. Today, it's very easy to spread rumours in the press. I prefer to concentrate on my goals."
Considering Fernandes is undoubtedly one of the finest signings of United's post Sir Alex Ferguson-era, he has had to endure significant criticism during his nearly four years at the club.
As recently as this season Fernandes has had to deal with club legends like Roy Keane question whether the former Sporting star is worthy of captain-status at a club with the stature of United.
Fernandes boasts just four goals in 17 games across all competitions so far this term. Though one of those came in the form of a last-gasp winner away at Fulham earlier this month, he'll be under no illusions over the fact he has to raise his game for the good of United sooner rather than later.
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