Bruno Fernandes is delaying a decision on a new Manchester United contract until he can assess Mauricio Pochettino’s plans and whether the Argentine can restore the club’s challenge for major honours.
The Portugal midfielder, 32, is out of contract at the end of the current season, although Manchester United have the option to extend his deal by a further year. Fernandes has already rejected two previous renewal offers, increasing the club’s concern that they could lose their captain for nothing as his current agreement approaches its conclusion.
According to The Sun, Manchester United remain confident they can persuade Fernandes to sign fresh terms. However, the player is expected to judge the project by the progress made under Pochettino and the manager’s ability to bring stability after a difficult spell under Michael Carrick.
Fernandes has appeared frustrated during the current campaign as the team’s results and performances have declined. That downturn has also affected his own displays, with the midfielder falling short of his usual level before Carrick’s dismissal and the club’s decision to appoint Pochettino.
Pochettino is preparing to return to the Premier League with Manchester United, following previous spells in England with Southampton, Tottenham and Chelsea.
Fernandes’ deliberations extend beyond his relationship with the new manager. He also wants clarity over Manchester United’s recruitment plans and whether the board is prepared to address the squad’s remaining weaknesses.
The club signed Carlos Baleba, Youri Tielemans and Andre Santos during the summer as part of an attempt to reshape midfield. However, Manchester United did not strengthen every position that required attention. The team still lacks depth at full-back and centre-forward, while the performances of some defensive options remain inconsistent.
That makes further investment an important factor in Fernandes’ decision. The Portugal captain wants to see serious action from the club in the transfer market before deciding whether to remain at Old Trafford beyond the current season.
Pochettino set for major squad changes
Pochettino is expected to make significant changes to the Manchester United squad, both by bringing in new players and moving on some of the current group.
Fernandes is not the only senior player whose future could be affected. The contracts of Lisandro Martinez and Harry Maguire expire in the summer of 2027, although Manchester United hold options to extend both deals for another season. Luke Shaw is also approaching the end of his current contract and is currently absent through injury.
Pochettino is due to begin reshaping the team during the winter transfer window after officially taking charge next week, once his work with the United States national team has ended. His early decisions are expected to establish the direction of Manchester United’s new project, including whether the club can compete again and provide the players he believes are required.
Explaining his decision to leave the United States national team and return to England, Pochettino said: “It is difficult to talk now. I am a very emotional person. It is a very sad decision, but we are professionals and we are trying to achieve our dreams.”
The coming weeks will therefore be significant for both Manchester United’s rebuild and Fernandes’ decision over his future at Old Trafford.
