“He’s very serious at work” – Bruno Fernandes on Ruben Amorim

Bruno Fernandes has opened up on his working relationship with Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim, describing the Portuguese as “very serious” while outlining how clearly defined boundaries have shaped their roles at Old Trafford.

The United captain has been redeployed into a deeper midfield role since Amorim replaced Erik ten Hag, a tactical shift that has altered his positioning but not his influence.

Fernandes has still delivered five goals and seven assists in 16 Premier League appearances this season, underlining his continued importance.

Tactical shift, same influence

Amorim’s system prioritises structure and control, with Fernandes operating closer to the base of midfield to link play and manage tempo.

Data shows his touches in advanced areas are lower than during United’s most fluid periods, but he remains the primary creative outlet.

Only Bryan Mbeumo has outscored him in the league, despite Fernandes no longer playing as a pure No 10.

“We set boundaries”

Speaking to Canal 11, Fernandes explained that his relationship with Amorim is built on mutual respect and discipline.

“We set a boundary so that things don’t get crossed,” Fernandes said. “If I have to say something, I try not to do it in front of the other players. He’s a very serious person at work, like me.”

He added that Amorim is making a deliberate effort to build trust within the squad by engaging players on a more personal level rather than relying purely on hierarchy.

Summer exit was an option

Fernandes also revealed that Manchester United were open to selling him in the summer, with Saudi side Al Hilal prepared to make a £100 million move.

He admitted it hurt to feel the club would have accepted his departure had he pushed for it.

What ultimately convinced him to stay was Amorim’s insistence that he remained central to the project.

“The conversation with the manager made me stay,” Fernandes said. “From the club’s side, I felt like if I left, it wouldn’t be a big problem. That makes me sad.”

Loyalty over money

Despite acknowledging the financial appeal of Saudi Arabia, Fernandes insisted money has never dictated his decisions.

He stressed his emotional attachment to United and rejected the idea of forcing an exit.

“I always give my all,” he said. “I could have left and earned much more, but loyalty isn’t seen the same way anymore. I never felt I could act like that.”

Fernandes’ contract runs until 2027, with an option for an additional year. He has suggested any major decision on his future may come after the 2026 World Cup, where he expects to feature for Portugal.