Bruno Fernandes keen on Spain or Italy switch

Bruno Fernandes has said he would like to play in Spain or Italy later in his career, while stressing that he still wants to remain at Manchester United for as long as the club continues to want him.

The Portugal international, whose contract at Old Trafford runs until June 2027, rejected a lucrative move to Saudi Pro League side Al Hilal during the summer window.

Speaking in a two part interview with Portuguese broadcaster Canal 11, Fernandes explained that his priority remains staying where he feels valued, even as he outlined his interest in experiencing other leagues in the future.

“I’ve always said that I want to remain in a 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.”

Now 31, Fernandes has previous experience in Italian football, having played for Novara, Udinese and Sampdoria earlier in his career before joining Sporting CP in 2017 and then moving to United in January 2020.

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

Fernandes also acknowledged that a return to Portugal remains a possibility, although he made clear that such a move would require careful consideration.

“I’ve thought about returning to Portugal,” he said. “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.”

Despite discussing potential future destinations, Fernandes underlined his desire to keep playing for as long as possible, regardless of level.

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