Speaking to reporters at Carrington, Fernandes confirmed that Al-Hilal made a lucrative approach worth up to £100 million, but said both he and United agreed he still had a vital role in the club’s project under manager Ruben Amorim.

The midfielder said he only considered leaving if the club wished to “cash in” due to his age, but that was never the case.

“I had conversations with Al-Hilal, and everyone knows that,” Fernandes said. “But I didn’t feel it was the right time to go. The club and the manager wanted me to stay, and I still feel part of the plan.”

The 30-year-old added that he and his family are fully settled in Manchester, describing the city as “a second home.” Fernandes also dismissed rumors of a pre-agreement to leave next season, clarifying that he will not hold any talks over his future until after the World Cup.

“I feel good here. I still want to achieve my dreams with Manchester United,” he said. “If the club wants me to go, we’ll talk. But for now, I’m focused on what’s ahead.”

Fernandes, who joined United in 2020 from Sporting Lisbon, will make his 300th appearance for the club this weekend a milestone that further cements his status as one of United’s most influential players of the modern era.