Paul Scholes has revealed why he wants Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes to accept the mega offer from Al-Hilal this summer.
Bruno Fernandes joined Manchester United in January 2020, leaving Sporting CP after three impressive years at the club. He has since been the best player in every team he has played in, despite playing alongside the likes of Raphael Varane and Cristiano Ronaldo.
Under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, Fernandes played as almost a shadow striker, often running past the centre forward and scoring goals for fun, with 12 in his first season, in just 22 appearances.
Erik ten Hag preferred Fernandes to play as more of a creative player, holding his position in the 4-2-3-1 more and operating in the centre of the pitch, with every move going through him.
Whereas Rúben Amorim has mostly played the United captain as a deep-lying playmaker in a double pivot alongside Casemiro or Manuel Ugarte, he has still scored 19 goals and 18 assists in his 57 appearances this season.
However, Fernandes could be set for a move to Saudi Arabia this summer, with Al-Hilal said to be interested in the playmaker.
Scholes urges United to sell Fernandes
Despite United’s reliance on Fernandes, United legend Paul Scholes has urged the Red Devils to sell the captain because “they cannot say no.”
Speaking on the Overlap, Scholes said: “They are talking about £100 million for him. Man United cannot say no to that.
“I know he has been brilliant and carried the team on his back, but where does he actually play, what is his position? Do you see him as a number 10? Do you see him as a holding midfielder?
“He almost confuses the whole system. I mean, he has been brilliant, don’t get me wrong. But when you’re getting 100 million for him, you snap your hands and take it.”
Fabrizio Romano has reported that Al-Hilal “would be willing to match Manchester United’s asking price and pay a crazy fee” for the Portuguese midfielder.
Mainoo set for an increase in responsibility
Even if United keep hold of Fernandes next season, Kobbie Mainoo must see an increase in playing time and responsibility around the dressing room.
The Red Devils No.37 took the armband in United’s first post-season tie against the ASEAN All-Stars and impressed in the second game against Hong Kong, playing on the right of the front three.
While Amorim doesn’t appear to have a set role for Mainoo, the youngster should see an increase in responsibility in preparation for when Fernandes does eventually leave.
At just 20 years old, it is crucial to manage Mainoo’s minutes, but he is the only United player who could take over some of Fernandes’ creative responsibilities if given the chance.
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