Manchester United Captain Bruno Fernandes Rejects Second Contract Offer

LONDON, Nov 13 (OPA) — Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has turned down a second improved contract offer from the Premier League club. Discussions began over the summer following a strong campaign that saw the Portuguese international named the Men's PFA Player of the Year. However, talks have stalled amid a turbulent start to the season for the club, which currently sits in the relegation zone.

Fernandes drew heavy criticism last month after publicly questioning Michael Carrick's tactics following a Champions League defeat to Como. The midfielder openly questioned the staff's decision to avoid man-to-man pressing. Pundit Gary Neville labeled his remarks horrific, and Fernandes was subsequently benched for a Premier League fixture against Bournemouth before returning to the starting lineup.

Despite the friction, Fernandes later insisted he accepted the manager's decision to bench him and denied holding clear-the-air talks with Carrick. Carrick was dismissed on Thursday following a protracted departure that drew internal criticism from club staff regarding the handling of a former club legend. Chief executive Omar Berrada and director of football Jason Wilcox met with Ineos chief Sir Jim Ratcliffe in Monaco to ratify the decision to replace Carrick with United States national team coach Mauricio Pochettino.

Fernandes' contract is set to expire in June 2027. If fresh terms are not agreed upon, the midfielder will be free to discuss a summer move with foreign clubs during the January transfer window. United retains the option to trigger a 12-month extension in his contract, but ongoing negotiations regarding salary and contract length remain unresolved as the club works to secure his future.