Why is Bruno Fernandes being backed for the Ballon d'Or and what did he reject from Saudi Arabia?

Why Bruno Fernandes is Backed for the Ballon d'Or

Bruno Fernandes is receiving strong backing for the Ballon d'Or based on an exceptional 2025-26 season. He currently has 18 assists, placing him just three assists away from breaking the joint record held by Thierry Henry and Kevin De Bruyne. His creative output has been described as 'scary' and 'quite exceptional' by fellow professionals. In his last six appearances, he recorded a phenomenal six assists while also scoring eight goals this term. Jesse Lingard publicly insists that Fernandes should be in the running for the Ballon d'Or, describing his season as 'extraordinary.' Other analysts including Gary Neville have named him among the candidates for player of the season.

The Saudi Arabia Offer He Rejected

Bruno Fernandes rejected a record transfer offer from Saudi club Al-Hilal last summer worth £200 million (approximately 400 billion won). The unprecedented package included a weekly salary of £700,000 (approximately 1.4 billion won) along with tax exemptions. Despite these extraordinary financial conditions, Fernandes chose to remain at Manchester United, stating he could not leave while the club was facing difficulties.

His Current Standing at Manchester United

Fernandes is Manchester United's captain with a contract running until September 2027, with the club holding an option to extend by an additional 12 months. Under interim manager Michael Carrick, Manchester United has surged into third place in the Premier League following 8 wins in 12 matches. Fernandes has been instrumental in this turnaround and has publicly backed Carrick for the permanent manager position, praising how the manager transformed the team's mentality and energy.