Bruno Fernandes keen to try Spain or Italy after Manchester United

Bruno Fernandes has suggested Spain or Italy as potential destinations later in his career, while insisting his immediate focus remains on remaining in the country. Manchester United.

The United captain, whose contract runs until June 2027, rejected a lucrative approach from Saudi Pro League side Al Hilal over the summer and admitted the club wanted him to leave.

Speaking in a two-part interview with Portuguese broadcaster Canal 11, Fernandes discussed both his long-term ambitions and his current commitment to the club.

In the second part of the interview, broadcast on Wednesday, the Portugal international made it clear that he is happy to stay at Old Trafford as long as he feels valued.

“I always said I wanted to stay in one place for as long as I wanted,” Fernandes said. “The moment I feel like I'm not 100% wanted, then I'll speak to the club and say I want to leave.”

Longer term, Fernandes admitted he is keen to explore other major European leagues, particularly those he has yet to play in or have close personal connections with.

“I would like to try the spanish championship because I have never played in Spain. I would like to play for one of the Italian clubs that compete for big goals like the league title, especially because I really enjoyed living in Italy.

The 31-year-old's comments on Italy reflect his early career journey, having previously played for Novara, Udinese and Sampdoria before returning to Portugal with Sporting CP in 2017.

“I have many ties to the country [Italy]”, Fernandes said. “My daughter was born there and she keeps saying she wants to learn Italian and if I could provide that and play for an Italian club that has big goals and fight for a chance to win titles, that's an idea I would like.”

Fernandes also acknowledged the possibility of one day returning to Portugal. He left Sporting to join United in January 2020 in a £68 million move and has since established himself as a key figure and captain at the club.

“I thought about going back to Portugal,” he said. “Coming back to where you were once happy can tarnish the image you left behind. Out of affection and respect, my first choice would be Sporting.

“But I don't want to spoil the beautiful image that I have. Even for family reasons, I would like to return to Portugal. But I don't want to go there just for what I have done but because I can add something.

“I want to extend my career as long as possible, I don't mind playing in lower leagues. I want to enjoy football.”