Bruno Fernandes Responds to Ratcliffe’s ‘Overpaid’ Comment

Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has defended himself and his teammates after club co-owner Jim Ratcliffe suggested that some players are “overpaid.” Ratcliffe, who recently took over football operations at United, praised Fernandes but also criticized certain signings, including Casemiro, Rasmus Hojlund, and Andre Onana, as examples of costly deals made before his arrival. In response, Fernandes insisted that players should not be blamed for the contracts they are offered by the club.

“We can’t relax at this club. There’s always high expectations and media scrutiny,” Fernandes said. “It’s never nice to hear criticism, whether it’s about being overpaid or not good enough. But contracts are agreed upon by both sides. It’s up to each player to prove their worth.” The Portuguese midfielder led by example on Thursday, scoring a hat-trick in United’s 4-1 victory over Real Sociedad, securing their place in the Europa League quarter-finals—one of the few bright spots in an otherwise disappointing season.

Fernandes also revealed that he had the opportunity to leave United last summer but ultimately decided to stay after discussions with the club and then-manager Erik ten Hag. “I had an offer to leave, and I sat down with the club to discuss it,” he said. “I asked if they still saw me as part of their future. Both the club and the manager made it clear that they did, and I believed in the project.”

Despite his strong performances, Fernandes has faced criticism from former United captain Roy Keane, who recently claimed the midfielder was “not a fighter” and that “talent is not enough.” Fernandes acknowledged Keane’s comments but said he remains focused on proving himself. “I have massive respect for him. All I can do is perform on the pitch and try to change his opinion,” he said.

Meanwhile, United’s coach Ruben Amorim has defended Fernandes, emphasizing his importance to the team. “We need more players like Bruno,” Amorim said. “His numbers speak for themselves. He always steps up, especially in recent games. The criticism comes from high expectations, but in football, things are not always black and white.”

With United struggling in the Premier League and already out of the domestic cups, Fernandes remains one of their few consistent performers, having scored 15 goals this season, including six in his last six games.