Bruno Fernandes has made it clear that staying at Manchester United was never about protecting his place at next summer’s World Cup. The midfielder says he simply wanted to remain where he feels happy.

The Portugal international was reportedly targeted by Saudi Pro League giants Al-Hilal and Al-Ittihad, with one offer believed to include a £300 million package £100 million to United and £200 million for the player.

Despite the staggering numbers, Fernandes said he never seriously considered leaving Old Trafford. “I didn’t stay because of the World Cup,” he told Portuguese outlet O Jogo. “I stayed because I wanted to, and the club wanted me to.”

Fernandes, 31, still has two years left on his current contract with an option for a further season. He remains one of the most influential figures in Ruben Amorim’s squad despite a mixed start to the campaign.

The United captain has scored twice so far this season but also missed two penalties, mirroring the team’s inconsistent form in the Premier League and Europe.

When asked whether he might reconsider a move to Saudi Arabia next summer, Fernandes dismissed the idea. “That’s an impossible scenario to imagine,” he said. “It hasn’t been discussed, and I’m focused on what’s in front of me.”

The midfielder is currently preparing for Portugal’s World Cup qualifier against the Republic of Ireland. Roberto Martínez’s side has made a perfect start in Group F, with wins over Armenia and Hungary.

Fernandes said his only ambition now is to help Portugal qualify early for next year’s tournament. “Our dream is to reach and win the World Cup,” he said. “Since I was a kid,which has always been the goal.”

His commitment offers stability for United amid ownership uncertainty and transfer speculation. For now, Fernandes remains the heartbeat of Amorim’s new-look side both on and off the pitch.