Manchester United striker Joshua Zirkzee made no secret of his joy after it emerged that Bruno Fernandes rejected Al-Hilal’s mega offer.
Earlier on Monday, news broke that Fernandes turned down Al-Hilal’s proposal after days of intense speculation over his future at United.
Al-Hilal had offered Fernandes an eye-watering £700,000 a week deal to play in the Middle East and compete in the upcoming Club World Cup competition. The Saudi Pro League club were also prepared to offer United up to £100 million this week to make the deal happen.
However, after careful consideration and talks with his family, Fernandes decided to snub their approach in favour of staying at Old Trafford.
Fernandes himself confirmed as much in a press conference ahead of Portugal’s meeting with Germany, insisting that Al-Hilal were very interested in him but he wants to continue playing in Europe.
The 30-year-old also explained that United and Ruben Amorim made it clear to him that they did not want to sanction a sale.
A big chunk of the fanbase has welcomed the news with relief and excitement, and it looks like the players are just as thrilled to have their captain sticking around for at least one more season.
Reacting to the news of Fernandes staying, Zirkzee took to Instagram and uploaded a picture of him celebrating a goal with Fernandes.
Zirkzee accompanied the photo with the caption “mood.”
The Dutch forward’s response further highlights just how vital Fernandes is to the club, both in terms of his influence on the pitch and his presence off it.
Very few players, if any, since Sir Alex Ferguson’s retirement, have dealt with the pressure of playing for United as well as Fernandes has.
This summer, United’s top priority should be building a stronger squad around Fernandes and giving him the support he needs to thrive and helping propel the club to new heights.
Featured image Carl Recine via Getty Images
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Derick Kinoti
Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the game extensively for many years. He is a keen analyst with expertise in SEO and journalism standards. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!
