Alvaro Fernandez speaks out on Man Utd return to solve Ruben Amorim problem

Fernandez has enjoyed a terrific campaign in Portugal (Picture: Getty Images)

According to Alvaro Fernandez, he is “very happy” at Benfica and is not considering a January return to Manchester United.

For a nominal fee of £5 million, the Spain Under-21 player departed United in January to go on loan to Benfica, a transfer that was made permanent at the conclusion of the 2023–24 campaign.

Fernandez has been a standout player in Portugal this season, starting every match since the middle of August and scoring two goals in his last two games before the international break.

Real Madrid and Barcelona have expressed interest in him as a result of his performances, although United still has the opportunity to exercise their repurchase in January.

Tyrell Malacia and Luke Shaw have yet to play this season, making left-back a headache for United. With Fernandez as a potential answer, new manager Ruben Amorim’s preferred 3-4-3 shape, which uses wing-backs, could be implemented at Old Trafford this week.

Although the 21-year-old is aware that United could lure him back to Manchester, he is focussing on Benfica for the time being.

“Those who are closest to me are the ones who examine it more,” Fernandez said to Marca. Honestly, I don’t give it much thought.

I have a game every three days, so I’m focused on what I need to do. Everyone wants to improve, and it’s always good to get called by teams, but I’m doing great here. Although United has a signed purchase option, I’m content here.

My contract with Benfica is for five years. Since I’m only 21, I want to win trophies and keep developing as a person. Whether it’s with Spain or Benfica, I want to win so that I can keep improving.

In the same month that Alejandro Garnacho left Atletico’s junior ranks to join United, Fernandez, then 16 years old, moved from Real Madrid.

He advanced through the youth systems and made an impression while playing for Preston on loan in the Championship in 2022–2023.

He did not make his senior debut for the team in spite of such encouraging performances.