Bruno Fernandes delays Manchester United decision as Pochettino plans rebuild

Bruno Fernandes will wait to assess Mauricio Pochettino’s plans for Manchester United before deciding whether to sign a new contract with the club.

The Portuguese midfielder, 32, is contracted until the end of the current season, although United hold an option to extend the agreement 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 deal approaches its conclusion.

United remain confident they can persuade Fernandes to stay, according to The Sun, but his decision will depend heavily on how Pochettino shapes the club’s new sporting project and whether the Argentine can restore the team’s challenge for major honours.

Fernandes has appeared frustrated during the current campaign, as United have struggled for both results and performances. His own form has also fallen below his usual level during a difficult period under Michael Carrick, who has since been dismissed.

Pochettino is preparing to return to the Premier League with a move to Old Trafford, having previously managed Southampton, Tottenham and Chelsea. Fernandes is expected to assess not only his working relationship with the new manager, but also whether the club is prepared to address weaknesses in the squad.

United strengthened their midfield during the summer by signing Carlos Baleba, Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos. However, the club did not reinforce several other positions that remain sources of concern.

Despite rebuilding in midfield, United still lack sufficient options at full-back and centre-forward, while the performances of some defensive players have remained inconsistent. Fernandes wants to see serious action from the club in the transfer market before committing his future beyond the end of the season.

Pochettino faces major decisions

Pochettino is expected to make significant changes to the squad, both by bringing in new players and moving on some of the current members.

Fernandes is not the only senior player whose future could be affected. Lisandro Martinez and Harry Maguire are due to see their contracts expire in the summer of 2027, although United have options to extend both deals by one year. Luke Shaw is also approaching the end of his current contract and is currently absent with an injury.

Pochettino is expected to begin reshaping the team during the January transfer window after formally taking charge next week. He will do so after completing his work with the United States national team.

The Argentine’s arrival is expected to establish the direction of United’s new project, particularly in terms of the club’s ability to compete 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 want to achieve our dreams.”

The coming weeks will therefore be important in determining both the shape of Pochettino’s Manchester United squad and whether Fernandes continues his career at Old Trafford.