Manchester United's Bruno Fernandes has revealed his disappointment at Declan Rice's decision to join Arsenal instead of the Red Devils. In an interview with The Football Writers' Association, Fernandes expressed his belief that Rice was the perfect fit for United, citing his exceptional skills and potential to enhance the team's midfield. This sentiment is shared by former United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, who also admired Rice's abilities and believed he would have been a valuable addition to the squad.
Fernandes and Rice have a history of mutual respect and admiration, having trained together during a summer camp in Portugal three years ago. The Portuguese midfielder even reposted a picture of the pair from the session, expressing his pleasure in working with Rice. Despite not sharing a dressing room, both players have a strong connection and trained together during a summer camp in Portugal three years ago.
The interest in Rice came just a year after United signed Fernandes from Sporting CP for £47m, and the pair would have formed a dream midfield partnership. Rice is widely regarded as one of Europe's premium midfielders, capable of improving any side on the continent. However, United ultimately spent big on Raphael Varane instead, and Rice joined Arsenal for an initial £100m, rising by a further £5m in add-ons, making him the most expensive English player of 2023.
Fernandes' disappointment at Rice's decision is understandable, given his belief in the player's potential to enhance United's midfield. The Portuguese midfielder has had an outstanding campaign, collecting the Football Writers' Association Player of the Year award and claiming 21 assists in all competitions. He is just one short of equalling the record held jointly by Kevin De Bruyne and Thierry Henry of 20 assists in a single Premier League season.
Despite the setback, Fernandes continues to excel and is now up for the Professional Footballers' Association Player of the Season award. His form has surged since Michael Carrick replaced Ruben Amorim in January, and he has been central to United's return to the Champions League. While Rice and Fernandes may now be rivals, their mutual respect and history of admiration for each other's skills remain a testament to their professionalism and dedication to the game.
