By M10News Sports Desk | © M10News 2025
Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes and former team-mate Jesse Lingard have reacted to a major update from Portugal skipper Cristiano Ronaldo, who has confirmed his decision to remain in Saudi Arabia.
Ronaldo, 39, announced on social media that he has signed a new two-year contract with Al-Nassr, ending speculation over his future in the Saudi Pro League.
“A new chapter begins. Same passion, same dream. Let’s make history together,” Ronaldo wrote in the post, which was ‘liked’ by Fernandes and Lingard, both former teammates from their time together at Old Trafford.
Ronaldo joined Al-Nassr in December 2022 after a highly publicised departure from Manchester United, following a breakdown in his relationship with then-manager Erik ten Hag.
The Portuguese star recently turned down the opportunity to leave Al-Nassr to participate in the Club World Cup, underlining his commitment to the Saudi club.
Meanwhile, Bruno Fernandes, who played a vital role for United last season with 19 goals and 19 assists across all c⁷ompetitions, was himself linked with a lucrative move to Saudi Arabia earlier this summer.
The midfielder reportedly rejected an approach from Al Hilal, opting to stay at Old Trafford — a decision seen as a major boost for United and under-pressure manager Ruben Amorim.
United fans will hope Fernandes’ commitment helps steady the club after a turbulent campaign. His Premier League record stands at 62 goals and 51 assists in 195 appearances — numbers that reflect his consistent influence on the squad.
The Red Devils are looking to strengthen their attacking options to provide Fernandes with more support.
Matheus Cunha has already arrived, with Brentford forward Bryan Mbeumo expected to follow.
Frustrations over United’s lack of a reliable striker were evident last season, with neither Rasmus Højlund nor Joshua Zirkzee able to secure the number nine role convincingly.
Amorim, facing mounting pressure after a disappointing debut campaign, knows a positive start to next season is crucial — especially with United facing title-chasing Arsenal on the opening day.
Jesse Lingard, now playing for FC Seoul in South Korea, has struggled to reignite his career since leaving West Ham in 2021 but showed his support for Ronaldo by also engaging with the post.
As Ronaldo extends his time in Saudi Arabia, Fernandes’ decision to stay in Manchester suggests the Portuguese pair now see their futures on very different paths — with both determined to “make history” in their own way.
