5 days ago
9 ARTICLE AD
Published November 18, 2024 8:06am Updated November 18, 2024 8:06am
Alvaro Fernandez insists he is ‘very happy’ at Benfica and is not focusing on a return to Manchester United in January.
The Spain Under-21 international left United to join Benfica on loan in January with that move made permanent at the end of the 2023-24 season for a modest fee of £5million.
Fernandez has shone in Portugal this term, starting every game since mid-August, also adding goals to his game with two in his last two appearances prior to the international break.
His performances have attracted interest from Barcelona and Real Madrid but United do retain a buyback option which they could choose to activate in January.
Left-back has been a problem area for United with Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia still to play this season. New manager Ruben Amorim favours 3-4-3 formation utilising wing-backs, a system he could begin implementing at Old Trafford this week with Fernandez a possible solution.
The 21-year-old is aware of United’s option to bring him back to Manchester but for now, is keeping his mind firmly on Benfica.
‘I have people close to me and they are the ones who look at it more,’ Fernandez told Marca. ‘To be honest, I don’t pay much attention to it.
‘I’m focused on what I have to do because I have a game every three days. It’s always nice to have teams call you and everyone wants to grow, but I’m doing very well here. United have a signed purchase option, but I’m very happy here.
‘I have a five-year contract with Benfica. I want to win titles and continue to grow personally, as I am still only 21 years old. I want to win, whether it is with Spain or with Benfica, to continue to grow.’
Fernandez joined United as a 16-year-old from Real Madrid, arriving at the club the same month Alejandro Garnacho made his switch from Atletico’s youth ranks.
He progressed the youth ranks and impressed in the Championship on loan with Preston in the 2022-23 season.
Despite those promising displays, he failed to make his senior debut for the club.
MORE: Manchester United eye move for star managed by Ruben Amorim with £84 million release clause
MORE: Juventus want Manchester United, Arsenal and Tottenham men after Paul Pogba exit
MORE: Liverpool have Ligue 1 youngster on their radar to replace Mohamed Salah
