Man Utd hear Bruno Fernandes exit verdict if they lose Europa League final

Former Manchester United winger Lee Sharpe has backed Bruno Fernandes to remain at the club this summer, regardless of their Europa League final result. The Red Devils' disastrous campaign has attracted further speculation surrounding Fernandes' future, and a failure to qualify for European football next season would intensify the uncertainty.

United meet Tottenham Hotspur in tonight's Europa League final at the San Mames Stadium - an opportunity for both lowly Premier League sides to save their campaign. The victors won't just lift a piece of major silverware in Bilbao, but they will also secure a spot in next season's Champions League.

It represents a golden ticket for the teams in 16th and 17th in the league, respectively, this term, and could prove crucial for United to retain Fernandes.

However, Sharp is convinced the Portuguese captain will stay put at Old Trafford due to a lack of heavyweight interest from Champions League stalwarts.

He told Coin Poker: "If Bruno Fernandes was to leave, where would he go that's bigger than Manchester United?

"It's difficult to see him at another Premier League club, so then you're looking at the big clubs in Europe that are playing in the Champions League next season.

"Real Madrid and Barcelona wouldn't give up the players they already have in that position for Bruno, and I think that goes for every other top club in Europe."

Saudi Pro League clubs have recently been strongly credited with an interest in Fernandes, namely Al Hilal.

But Sharpe doesn't think the 30-year-old will view a Saudi switch the right move at the current stage of his career.

"Saudi is a different option, but players go there for a retirement package," Sharpe continued.

"It's definitely not a more exciting proposition, and there isn't a bigger club than United out there - nor is Bruno ready for that yet.

"I think what also helps is his relationship with Ruben Amorim; Bruno is the club's captain and has a good relationship with the manager, so I can't see him going anywhere."

Should Fernandes lift the Europa League in Bilbao, he would have clinched three different trophies in as many years at United.

He helped Erik ten Hag guide the M16 giants to the League Cup in 2023 and the FA Cup last year. But Fernandes has also suffered final heartbreak in the 2021 Europa League final and the FA Cup in 2023.

The world-class playmaker will have a significant say if United are celebrating rather than mourning on their flight home to Manchester.