‘I told the club’ - Bruno Fernandes opens up about Sir Jim Ratcliffe talks regarding Man Utd future

Bruno Fernandes has committed his future to Manchester United - insisting he “wants to be part of a project” at Old Trafford.

The captain is contracted until 2026 and admitted he has held talks with Sir Jim Ratcliffe about his plans. Signed from Sporting Lisbon four years ago, Fernandes has become a key player for United under tough circumstances.

At times, the 29-year-old has attracted criticism for his on-field antics but remains widely regarded as the club’s best player. Erik ten Hag made him Red Devils skipper at the start of the season - axing Harry Maguire.

Better days have been promised now Ineos billionaire Ratcliffe has seized sporting control at the Theatre of Dreams. Speaking to Portuguese outlet A Bola, United talisman Fernandes outlined his desire to fight for honours under Ratcliffe’s regime.

“I’ve always told the club I don’t want to be promised that we’re going to be champions because, whatever club I go to, I don’t expect to be promised something they can’t fulfil from the start,” he said. “What I’ve always asked for and what I want from the club is for us to be competitive.

“This year we haven’t been and we don’t have to hide it. The season has been below our expectations. Below my expectations, at least - and I think the club’s too. They’re not used to being in these positions.

“I want to be competitive, I want to compete, I want to win. I’ve already had a meeting with the new owners. They want to meet with the players, have already done so individually and that’s exactly the message I passed on.

“I want to stay here, I want to be part of a project that has feet, legs, torso and head. Everything we need to be able to compete with Manchester City, Arsenal and Liverpool - who are the clubs that have been in the best shape.”