Former Chelsea and Liverpool midfielder Joe Cole thinks Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes should leave Old Trafford at the end of the season.

Speaking to Paddy Power, Cole said that the Portuguese international deserves to be playing for a “better team” and he feels the transfer could end up benefiting both parties:

“I think there could be a natural separation for Bruno Fernandes and Manchester United. He’s a brilliant footballer. He’s not a perfect footballer like Steven Gerrard, Paul Scholes or Kevin de Bruyne, but he’s a brilliant footballer who has been absolutely fantastic for Manchester United during the most difficult period the club has had in 40-odd years.”

“He can more than hold his head up with what he’s achieved in Manchester, but I think he deserves to play in a better team. It’ll be a nice separation point for the club, and it will benefit both. United need players who will do things that don’t suit Bruno. They need to build a strong base around the club, and they might have to cash in on him and bring players in who have different attributes.”

Fernandes only signed a new contract last summer

There was speculation at the end of last campaign that United’s captain could depart, with his agent having reportedly held talks with Paris Saint-Germain.

Ultimately, though, Fernandes committed his long-term future to the Red Devils and signed a contract extension. For that reason, it would be a surprise if either he or the club considered a potential transfer now.

United will need to raise funds

Cole is right to point out that the club is not exactly flush with cash at the moment. Some difficult decisions will need to be made this summer. Speaking in the build up to the FA Cup tie against Fulham, head coach Ruben Amorim said:

“We still have a lot of games to play, but it’s clear that some players will have to move on. If you explain things properly, players understand. When you are honest, even if it’s hard at first, they accept it.”

Considering how important Fernandes has been to United, though, it would be a massive surprise if he is one of those who is let go.

Find out who is in Manchester United’s first-team squad for the 2024/2025 season here