Bruno Fernandes Reveals Benfica Offered Bigger Deal Than Manchester United

 

Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes discusses his past Benfica offer that could have changed his career

Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has revealed that he once received a contract offer from Portuguese giants Benfica that was financially more attractive than his first deal at Old Trafford, shedding new light on a chapter of his career that could have taken a very different path. In a candid interview, Fernandes discussed the critical period following a turbulent episode at Sporting CP in 2018, when an attack on the club’s training ground led to several players terminating their contracts and exploring opportunities elsewhere.

Fernandes, 31, explained that Benfica emerged as a serious suitor during this period, presenting terms that were “very tempting” and, in monetary terms, superior to the initial offer from Manchester United. He described the offer as one of the most lucrative he had ever received, highlighting the rare financial opportunity it represented. Despite the appeal, Fernandes ultimately decided not to join Benfica, opting instead to return to Sporting for another period before securing his eventual move to Manchester United in January 2020 for a transfer fee of around €65 million.

“There was that possibility. Benfica wanted me. Financially, it was very tempting to move to Benfica. I believe that even up to today, very few players have had the offer that I had. Financially it was a better contract than the first one I had here at Manchester United,” Fernandes said, reflecting on the difficult decisions he faced at the time.

His decision to remain at Sporting and later join Manchester United has shaped the trajectory of his career. Since arriving at Old Trafford, Fernandes has become a central figure in the team, establishing himself as one of the Premier League’s most influential midfielders. He was named club captain ahead of the 2023–24 season and later extended his contract until 2027, solidifying his long-term commitment to the club.

Fernandes’ revelations provide rare insight into the crossroads he faced during a period of uncertainty. The 2018 attack on Sporting’s academy, which left players and staff assaulted, created a volatile environment, prompting the midfielder and others to explore their options. Benfica’s interest emerged as a significant opportunity that could have dramatically altered Portuguese football, considering the intense rivalry between Sporting and Benfica.

For Fernandes, the decision was about more than money. While Benfica’s offer was financially appealing, he also considered his development and long-term career ambitions. By returning to Sporting, he positioned himself for a high-profile move abroad, which ultimately materialized with Manchester United. This move allowed him to compete at the highest level of European football while also gaining global recognition and commercial prominence.

Since joining United, Fernandes has consistently delivered impressive performances, earning praise for his creativity, leadership, and goal-scoring ability. His influence on the pitch has been critical to the team’s successes, and his decision to stay at the club, despite lucrative offers from other leagues, reflects a commitment to both sporting challenge and personal ambition.

Analysts have noted that Fernandes’ journey highlights the delicate balance between financial incentives and competitive aspirations that elite players often face. Had he chosen Benfica in 2018, he might have enjoyed a high salary in Portuguese football but would have missed the exposure and competition that come with the Premier League. Instead, his move to Manchester United has allowed him to grow as a player and as a leader, demonstrating the importance of strategic career decisions in shaping professional football trajectories.

Fernandes’ acknowledgment of Benfica’s offer also sheds light on the complex considerations behind career choices at the top level. Players must weigh financial terms, competitive opportunities, and personal goals, often under intense public scrutiny. By sharing his experience, Fernandes provides fans and aspiring players with a candid glimpse into the realities of professional football, where pivotal decisions can define both personal and professional success.

As Fernandes continues to lead Manchester United into the 2025–26 season, his reflections on past opportunities underscore the significance of decision-making in elite sports. His story illustrates how careful consideration of timing, ambition, and opportunity can lead to long-term success, reaffirming his commitment to Manchester United, where he now plays a defining role both on and off the pitch.

This narrative not only enhances Fernandes’ personal legacy but also serves as a reminder of the high-stakes nature of football transfers and the strategic thinking that underpins every major career move in the sport.