rewrite this title Fernandes eyeing switch to Italy or Spain after Man Utd career – Soccer News

Bruno Fernandes has expressed his desire to return to Italy or have a crack at playing in LaLiga once his Manchester United career comes to an end.

Fernandes, whose contract at Old Trafford expires in 2027, was subject to reported interest from Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal last summer, with a £100m deal mooted.

In an interview with Canal 11 that aired earlier this week, the 31-year-old revealed United were willing to let him go ahead of the 2025-26 campaign.

However, in the second part of that same interview, Fernandes explained that he wanted to remain at the club but was willing to explore his options, particularly in Spain or Italy.

Fernandes started his professional career with Italian side Novara before stints with Udinese and Sampdoria between 2013 and 2017.

He made 118 Serie A appearances for those teams in total, scoring 15 goals and providing 13 assists, ahead of his switch to Sporting CP.

“I’ve always said that I want to remain in this place for as long as I’m wanted,” Fernandes said.

“The moment I feel that I’m not 100% wanted, then I will talk to the club and say that I want to leave. I would like to try the Spanish league because I’ve never played in Spain.

“I would like to play for one of the clubs in Italy that competes for big aims like the league title, especially because I really enjoyed living in Italy.”

Since joining United in January 2020, no player has played more Premier League games than Fernandes (211).

He has also created the most chances (588) in that timeframe, while only Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah (189) has more goal contributions than his 125.

Italy is the only country Fernandes has played in but is yet to win a major trophy, something he would like to tick off should he return to Serie A in the future.

“I have many links to the country [Italy],” the United captain said. “My daughter was born there and she keeps saying that she wants to learn Italian.

“If I could provide that and play for a club in Italy that has big aims and fight for a chance to win titles, it’s an idea that I like.”

Fernandes has, however, not ruled out returning to play in his native Portugal. He left Sporting to sign for United in a reported £68m transfer almost six years ago.

“I’ve thought about returning to Portugal,” Fernandes added. “Going back to where you were once happy can tarnish the image you have left.

“Out of affection and respect, my first choice would be Sporting. But I don’t want to spoil the beautiful image I have. Even for family reasons, I would like to return to Portugal.

“But I don’t want to go there only for what I did, but because I can add something.”