Bruno Fernandes has fired back at Manchester United co-owner Jim Ratcliffe’s remarks about some players being “overpaid,” insisting that contracts are a club decision, not a player’s fault.
Ratcliffe had praised Fernandes but suggested that some members of the squad were “not good enough” and highlighted costly signings like Casemiro, Rasmus Højlund, and André Onana as part of United’s financial struggles.
Following his stunning Europa League hat-trick in a 4-1 win over Real Sociedad, Fernandes stood up for his teammates.
“It’s not nice to hear those things,” he said. “No player likes to be told they are overpaid or not good enough. The club agreed to these contracts, and it’s on us to prove our worth.”
Fernandes also revealed he had an offer to leave last summer but chose to stay after clear talks with Erik ten Hag and the club.
“They told me I was part of the rebuild, and I believed we could be successful,” he said.
The Portuguese midfielder has been a standout performer for United, netting 15 goals this season, but has still faced criticism from former captain Roy Keane.
Keane recently claimed Fernandes is “not a fighter” and that “talent is not enough” at United.
Fernandes, however, remains focused on leading the team his own way.
“I respect Roy massively,” he said. “I try to be the best captain for my teammates in my own way.”
With United’s Premier League struggles and early cup exits, the Europa League remains their only shot at silverware this season—making Fernandes’ leadership more crucial than ever.
